Ecuadorians head to the polls amidst a climate of heightened insecurity and political uncertainty. The nation, grappling with escalating violence since 2019, finds itself at a critical juncture as citizens vote in a presidential election that could determine the country's path toward restoring peace and stability. The election, which includes 16 candidates, features incumbent President Daniel Noboa and leftist lawyer Luisa González among the frontrunners. Voting is mandatory, and a runoff election is scheduled for April 13 if no candidate secures a decisive victory.
Violence has plagued Ecuador over the past four years, with many citizens falling victim to robberies, kidnappings, and homicides. The homicide rate has seen a slight decline from 8,237 in 2023 to 6,964 in 2024, translating to a reduction from 46.18 to 38.76 per 100,000 people. Despite this decrease, kidnappings have risen from 1,643 cases in 2023 to 1,761 by November 2024. Notorious criminal organizations, including Mexican, Colombian, and Balkan cartels, have entrenched themselves in Ecuador, operating alongside local gangs. This has exacerbated the country's security challenges and contributed to the pervasive sense of fear among its citizens.
In response to this wave of violence, Ecuador has been under a state of emergency since January 2024. President Daniel Noboa authorized this measure to deploy the military in specific areas to maintain order. Noboa has taken bold steps during his presidency, including sanctioning a police raid on Mexico's embassy in Quito to apprehend a fugitive former vice president. These actions highlight the administration's resolve to combat organized crime and restore public safety.
"Either you make a pact with the mafia, or you attack it with everything you have, otherwise the people will be left unprotected," – Dario Castro.
The 2024 election is crucial for Ecuadorians who yearn for change and assurance that their safety will be prioritized. Many voters have experienced firsthand the detrimental effects of the ongoing violence. Briggitte Hurtado, a resident affected by the unrest, expressed her frustration with the lack of progress.
"Nothing has improved since the violence broke out," – Briggitte Hurtado.
Despite these challenges, President Noboa remains a key contender in the election. Having assumed office in November 2023, Noboa has positioned himself as a strong leader capable of addressing Ecuador's security issues. His main rival, Luisa González, was relatively unknown until her party selected her as its presidential candidate. González served as a lawmaker until May 2023 and represents a fresh face in Ecuadorian politics.
González's campaign focuses on social justice and reform, appealing to those who feel marginalized by current policies. However, she faces an uphill battle against Noboa's established presence and authority. To secure an outright victory, a candidate must garner either 50% of the vote or at least 40% with a 10-point lead over their nearest competitor.
Ecuador's political landscape remains volatile as voters grapple with the decision of who can best lead the nation toward stability and growth. The presence of international criminal syndicates further complicates the situation, adding pressure on whoever emerges victorious to swiftly address these threats.
"People used to go out more, and there was more activity in this area. I still don’t know who to vote for," – Briggitte Hurtado.
With Ecuador under a state of emergency and military forces mobilized across the country, citizens are acutely aware of the need for decisive leadership. This election presents an opportunity for change and the potential for new strategies to tackle the pervasive issues plaguing Ecuador.
