Ecuadorian Vice President Veronica Abad has been suspended for two years for gender violence, impacting her political rights and duties. This ruling, deemed politically motivated by Abad, follows earlier accusations and is seen as a distraction from more pressing national issues. Abad is exploring options to appeal the ruling.
Ecuadorian Vice President Veronica Abad has been suspended from her political rights for two years due to a ruling by Judge Guillermo Ortega Caicedo, finding her guilty of gender violence. This decision, issued on February 27, threatens her ability to perform her duties and finances her with a penalty of USD $14,100. This ruling comes in the wake of a complaint filed by Chancellor Gabriela Sommerfeld alleging political gender violence.
The judge concluded that Abad had disseminated messages that reinforced stereotypes and harmed Sommerfeld’s public image, violating Articles 279 and 278 of Ecuador’s electoral law, which safeguard women’s political rights. The ruling follows a previous 150-day suspension issued in November 2024, which was later overturned. This earlier suspension was related to accusations of Abad abandoning her post as Ambassador to Israel.
Abad, who claimed her present troubles are politically motivated orchestrated by President Daniel Noboa to prevent her succession, has expressed concerns over the timing of her suspension. She believes it serves to distract from more critical national issues, notably a recent tragedy involving the forced disappearance and murder of four boys of Afro descent.
Amidst the ongoing political tensions within the Ecuadorian government, Abad stated that her sanction is a diversion tactic from significant matters concerning the public. President Noboa has appointed Planning Minister Sariha Moya as interim Vice President while Abad considers her options regarding the ruling, which she is preparing to contest. The official process for this appeal may take up to three months to unfold.
In conclusion, Vice President Veronica Abad’s suspension has stirred significant political controversy in Ecuador, raising concerns about the motivations behind such actions. With accusations of political gender violence and a previously overturned suspension, Abad’s situation reflects ongoing instability within the Ecuadorian government. Her claims of political distraction amid critical social issues underscore the complexities of her challenge, as the nation approaches crucial elections.
Original Source: latinamericareports.com
