Ecuador’s Vice President Veronica Abad has been suspended for 150 days, deepening tensions with President Daniel Noboa ahead of the February elections. Accused of failing to transfer from Israel to Turkey in a timely manner, this suspension adds to the challenges Abad faces, including a financial penalty for early campaigning. Experts suggest the suspension may impede her potential ascension to the presidency if Noboa seeks to campaign.
Ecuador’s Vice President Veronica Abad has been suspended for 150 days due to allegations of “unjustified abandonment” of her duties, exacerbating existing tensions with President Daniel Noboa. The suspension was enacted on Saturday and follows accusations that Abad failed to comply with a transfer order from Israel to Turkey last September. Her legal counsel, Dominique Dávila, criticized the suspension as being without legal merit and labeled it a serious move against Abad. The conflict between Abad and Noboa has been ongoing and has manifested in public disputes, including Abad’s complaint regarding gender-based violence against Noboa and his administration. This is the second disciplinary measure against Abad in less than a week, after a financial penalty for early election campaigning. Abad claims these measures are indicative of pressure aimed at coercing her resignation, while President Noboa has deemed her actions as disloyal. Abad’s situation has significant implications for the upcoming February elections, as Noboa may need to request a leave of absence to campaign, with Abad poised to assume the presidency in his absence. Experts believe that the current sanctions against her could hinder her ability to take over should Noboa leave office. Legal experts have indicated that while the suspension may lack robust legal footing, the appeal process may be prolonged, hindering her potential succession.
The context of the article revolves around the political dynamics in Ecuador, specifically the fraught relationship between Vice President Veronica Abad and President Daniel Noboa. Their conflicts reportedly stem from various issues, including accusations of gender-based violence and disputes over job responsibilities. The political climate is particularly significant, as the February elections approach, raising concerns about succession and the internal power struggles within the government. Abad’s legal challenges and recent sanctions reflect the contentious atmosphere as both politicians navigate their aspirations for future elections.
In summary, Ecuador’s political landscape is becoming increasingly precarious as Vice President Veronica Abad faces a 150-day suspension due to alleged failures in duty and ongoing feuds with President Noboa. This internal conflict not only disrupts the functioning of government but also poses potential challenges for Noboa’s reelection ambitions in February 2025. The legal ramifications of Abad’s suspension may further complicate the already fraught political environment and impact her access to presidential succession.
Original Source: apnews.com
