ECUADOR is gearing up for a crucial presidential election against a backdrop of escalating violence and criminal activity.
The campaign has been marred by the assassination of a prominent candidate and an uptick in drug cartel activities.
In recent years, Ecuador has become a hub for foreign drug traffickers, sparking violent clashes among local gangs and driving the murder rate higher than in neighboring Mexico and Colombia.
The election has also seen targeted attacks on politicians, including the murder of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio.
President Guillermo Lasso’s decision to call a snap election followed the dissolution of the opposition-led congress, aimed at avoiding an impeachment trial.
With eight candidates in the race, a runoff is scheduled for October 15 if no outright winner emerges.
Top contenders include Luisa Gonzalez from the leftist party, facing allegations of links to the murdered candidate, and Jan Topic, a right-wing businessman nicknamed “Rambo,” who pledges to tackle criminal gangs in Ecuador.
Ecuador is also holding referendums on Amazon oil drilling and mining in the Choco Andino Forest, to highlight the country’s environmental concerns.
Once known as a peaceful nation, Ecuador now grapples with a surge in crime linked to international criminal networks.
The election outcome will determine the nation’s path forward in restoring stability.
Initial results are expected shortly after polls close, with final results within ten days.
