Ecuador’s Vice Presidential Turmoil Amid Political and Legal Battles

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa appointed Cynthia Gellibert as interim Vice President after Verónica Abad faced suspension of her political rights.

Noboa signed Executive Decree 588 from Miami, where he is conducting official duties. Gellibert, currently Secretary General of Public Administration, assumes the role for the third time during Noboa’s presidency.

Abad, elected vice president in 2023, has been sidelined due to political disputes and legal rulings. She now serves as a temporary advisor at Ecuador’s embassy in Turkey.

The Electoral Dispute Tribunal suspended her political rights for two years following allegations of gender-based political violence against Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld.

Evidence included social media posts and public statements deemed discriminatory. The tribunal upheld fines of $14,100 and barred Abad from voting or running for office.

Abad denounced the ruling as politically motivated, claiming it was part of a broader effort to marginalize her within the administration. Noboa reassigned her to Turkey in November 2024 amid growing tensions.

Critics argue these moves reflect deeper divisions within Ecuador’s leadership. Noboa faces reelection challenges while navigating Ecuador’s economic struggles and rising crime rates.

Poverty affects 28% of the population, informal employment stands at 58%, and VAT increases have sparked discontent. His administration deployed military forces to combat organized crime, reducing homicide rates slightly but leaving security concerns unresolved.

Gellibert’s appointment highlights Noboa’s reliance on trusted allies during political instability. The decision ensures continuity as Noboa campaigns for reelection against leftist rival Luisa González in April’s runoff election.

Ecuador’s leadership struggles and broader challenges underscore the complexities of governance in a nation facing internal and external pressures.

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