QUITO, Ecuador – More than 13 million Ecuadorians are gearing up to participate in a significant referendum on Sunday, where security concerns will take center stage. This pivotal vote has the potential to shape the future of President Daniel Noboa and his tough stance on crime.
Noboa, a young president who took office last November, made a promise to tackle the escalating crime rates that have plagued Ecuador. His administration has been marked by declarations of “war” against criminal gangs labeled as “terrorists,” a state of emergency, and controversial actions like a raid on the Mexican embassy to capture a fugitive former vice president accused of corruption.
The upcoming referendum will consist of 11 questions, including proposals to empower the military to support police in combating organized crime, allowing the extradition of citizens prohibited by the Constitution, and increasing penalties for violent crimes. These measures aim to address the growing security concerns in a country once known for its peaceful reputation.
Ecuador’s deteriorating security conditions prompted Noboa’s predecessor to call for a snap election, leading to Noboa’s victory with a platform focused on cracking down on crime. However, the president’s bold actions have sparked international controversy, particularly the raid on the Mexican Embassy which resulted in severed diplomatic ties with Mexico.
Despite facing backlash for his decisions, Noboa remains steadfast, emphasizing the need for exceptional measures in response to the security crisis. As the referendum approaches, the president’s popularity could receive a boost from supporters who defend his controversial actions.
However, challenges loom on the horizon, such as an energy shortage leading to nationwide power cuts and a shutdown of sectors for two days. While some experts predict a surge in popularity for Noboa following the embassy raid, the outcome of the referendum remains uncertain amidst growing opposition and dissent from various groups.
Beyond security measures, the referendum also includes proposals to address economic concerns, such as enabling companies to hire workers on hourly wages and recognizing international arbitration for resolving investment disputes. The decisions made in this referendum could have far-reaching implications for Ecuador’s political landscape and its future path.