Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has ordered a three-day closure of the country’s borders ahead of presidential elections to counter destabilization efforts by armed groups. The announcement coincides with a recent spike in violence due to drug trafficking gangs, prompting Noboa to enhance military operations in sensitive areas during the campaign period.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared the closure of the nation’s borders for a three-day period, coinciding with the first round of the presidential election, which he is contesting. This decision, announced on social media, is a response to perceived threats from armed groups aiming to destabilize the country. During this time, Noboa plans to bolster military presence at border areas and militarize ports as a precautionary measure.
The President reported an incident involving the capture of twelve individuals in military and police attire, who were found with firearms, ammunition, and a drone. He described these individuals as “narco-terrorists” involved in schemes to undermine national security. Noboa, who ascended to the presidency in November 2023 to fulfill the remainder of his predecessor’s term, is focused on stabilizing the country while campaigning for re-election.
Ecuador, home to 17 million residents, increasingly grapples with endemic violence fueled by more than twenty gangs engaged in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion. Once seen as a sanctuary amidst the turmoil of neighboring Peru and Colombia, Ecuador has transformed into a critical logistical hub for drug exports. The homicide rate surged in 2023 to an alarming 47 deaths per 100,000 people amid escalating gang conflicts.
The Noboa administration claims its emergency measures, which involve military deployment in urban areas, have successfully reduced the country’s homicide rate to 38 by 2024. President Noboa faces a critical political challenge as he competes against his left-wing opponent, lawyer Luisa Gonzalez, in a repeat of the electoral contest held in October 2023, where he secured 52.1% of the vote. Also in the race is indigenous leader Leonidas Iza.
Ecuador has recently witnessed unprecedented levels of violence due to a surge in gang-related activities, primarily driven by drug trafficking. Amidst this turmoil, President Daniel Noboa has taken measures to fortify national security, especially with the approach of important electoral events. Noboa’s previous experience in a political climate marked by accusations of corruption and unrest forms the context for his presidency and the current election climate. The closure of borders reflects urgent governmental efforts to manage internal security issues and maintain order during elections.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa’s decision to close Ecuador’s borders ahead of the presidential election demonstrates proactive measures against escalating gang violence and threats to national stability. With a record of increasing violence linked to drug trafficking, the government’s response aims to ensure electoral integrity and public safety. The election represents a pivotal moment for the future of Ecuador as the nation confronts deep-seated security challenges.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
