The official race for Ecuador’s presidency began this Sunday, with Daniel Noboa and Luisa González as the final contenders. They will face off on October 15.
President Guillermo Lasso issued a “cross-death” decree in May. As a result, Ecuador is holding early elections.
The country is also grappling with an unprecedented crime wave. Shockingly, a former candidate, Fernando Villavicencio, was shot dead in August.
Daniel Noboa is 35 years old. He’s the son of businessman Álvaro Noboa. Politically, he leans center-left.
He champions both free markets and social justice. Meanwhile, his running mate, Verónica Abad, supports economic freedom and life rights.
Luisa González represents the Citizen’s Revolution party. She aligns with fugitive ex-President Rafael Correa.
Her campaign is decidedly progressive. Additionally, she draws inspiration from leaders like Brazil’s Lula da Silva.
Public safety is a top concern for both candidates. This year, Ecuador has seen more than 4,200 violent deaths. Hence, both aim to strengthen anti-crime policies.
Recent polls indicate Noboa as the favorite. A Comunicaliza study found 54.9% of voters prefer him.
Conversely, 45.1% back González. Another survey by Click Research supports these findings.
Specifically, it predicts Noboa would win with 55.16% of the votes, while González would get 44.84%.
A televised debate is scheduled for October 1. Certainly, this event will shape the campaign’s final days.
It will also provide a clearer picture of who will govern Ecuador through 2025.
Background
The runoff between Noboa and González highlights Ecuador’s ideological divide.
Noboa’s centrist views aim to strike a balance, a fresh approach in a polarized landscape.
On the other hand, González represents continuity for those still attached to Correa’s left-leaning policies.
Her campaign speaks to a faction that feels marginalized by recent administrations.
More: Ecuador news in English, every day from The Rio Times.
This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error
Read More from The Rio Times