Ecuador’s presidential election, held recently, has produced early results indicating that no candidate secured enough support to be declared the outright winner. Instead, initial tallies suggest a probable runoff between a leftist candidate backed by a former president in exile and the son of a prominent banana tycoon. Following closely is a substitute candidate who stepped in after a fellow campaigner’s tragic death.
To ensure the safety and integrity of the election, authorities deployed over 100,000 police and soldiers to protect voters and polling stations. Gen. Fausto Salinas, commander general of the National Police, reported that several individuals were arrested for offences such as false voting, harassment, resisting arrest, and illegal possession of firearms.
With approximately 88% of the votes counted, early results from the National Electoral Council showed leftist candidate Luisa González leading with around 33% of the support. Following closely was former lawmaker Daniel Noboa, with approximately 24%. To secure an outright victory. A candidate needed to receive either 50% of the vote or, failing that, at least 40% with a 10-point lead over the closest opponent.
Unexpected Contender
In a surprising development, Christian Zurita secured the third position with 16% of the vote. Zurita’s name was not on the ballot. He substituted for Fernando Villavicencio, who tragically lost his life on August 9. Sparking concerns about escalating violence in a country previously considered peaceful up until three years ago. Zurita expressed his pride in achieving third place. Emphasizing the moral commitment of those who have fought and even died for their country.
Luisa González, a lawyer and former lawmaker, had been the front-runner in opinion polls. Her campaign highlighted her affiliation with the party of former President Rafael Correa. He remains influential despite being found guilty of corruption in 2020 and sentenced to eight years in prison in absentia. Correa has been residing in Belgium since 2017.
Daniel Noboa, at 35, was the youngest among the eight candidates and had not previously ranked higher than fifth place in polls leading up to the election. He is the son of Alvaro Noboa, a prominent figure known for his extensive banana-growing and exporting business. Alvaro Noboa had made multiple attempts to secure Ecuador’s presidency in the past.
The Road Ahead
The special election was called following President Guillermo Lasso’s decision to dissolve the National Assembly in May. To prevent his impeachment over allegations related to a state-owned oil transport company’s contract with a private tanker company. Lasso opted not to run in this election. The winner of the runoff, scheduled for October 15, will serve out the remainder of Lasso’s term, which is less than two years.
Ecuador’s presidential election results point toward a likely runoff, adding to the political intrigue in the nation. With no candidate securing an outright victory, the final round of voting will determine Ecuador’s next leader.