Ecuador’s presidential race is concluding with incumbent Daniel Noboa and challenger Luisa Gonzalez making their final appeals to voters over key issues of employment, insecurity, and women’s rights. The runoff election presents a pivotal moment for the nation, as voters are divided and uncertain about the future path of Ecuador amid growing concerns about crime and political stability.
In Ecuador, the presidential candidates are finalizing their appeals to voters just days before the critical runoff election. The candidates, incumbent president Daniel Noboa and leftist hopeful Luisa Gonzalez, have focused their closing arguments on key issues such as employment, crime, and outreach to women voters. With approximately 14 million Ecuadorians eligible to vote, the election outcomes may significantly impact the nation’s future over the next four years.
As the campaigns concluded, a period of silence commenced with restrictions in place, including a ban on alcohol and limitations on foreign visitors to prevent any potential disturbances. The election features a competitive race, with only a narrow margin of under 17,000 votes distinguishing Noboa and Gonzalez during the first round in February. This time, with fewer candidates on the ballot, the dynamics are expected to shift significantly.
Concerns about violence and employment prevail among voters as reflected in the sentiments expressed by citizens. Adela, a young mother, criticized past political promises unfulfilled: “There is no work and insecurity is on the rise.” Noboa’s potential victory could lead to stricter policies aimed at combating violence related to the drug trade, while Gonzalez’s win may result in a leftward political shift and strained relations with the United States.
Gonzalez has garnered support from indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who received substantial backing in the initial voting round, although it remains uncertain whether his base will remain unified. The candidates held final rallies in the drug violence-prone city of Guayaquil, where Gonzalez made an appeal to women voters, proposing loans for single mothers.
Despite Noboa’s prestigious background, he attempted to position himself as a fresh alternative to traditional politics, criticizing Gonzalez for her association with former president Rafael Correa. Analysts caution that a narrow election result could potentially incite allegations of fraud and create a government that faces significant challenges due to a lack of widespread support.
The upcoming Ecuador presidential election is marked by a competitive atmosphere between Daniel Noboa and Luisa Gonzalez, focusing on pressing issues like security and job creation. The outcomes of this election will determine the future political landscape and international relations for Ecuador, particularly concerning the escalating challenges posed by drug-related violence and social issues affecting the populace. The decisions made by voters in this critical moment will resonate throughout the nation for years to come.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
