Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has closed borders for three days ahead of the presidential election due to threats from armed groups. He has increased military presence in border areas and reported arresting individuals attempting to destabilize the country. With rising violence from drug trafficking gangs, Noboa seeks to reinforce security as he faces re-election against Luisa Gonzalez and Leonidas Iza.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has ordered the closure of the nation’s borders for three days, coinciding with the presidential election in which he is a candidate. This decision, effective from Saturday to Monday, is a response to destabilization threats posed by armed groups, as detailed on his social media platform. President Noboa has also mandated an increase in military presence near borders and the immediate militarization of ports.
While campaigning for re-election, Noboa reported the apprehension of twelve individuals dressed as police and military personnel, armed with weapons and a drone, which he deemed an action of `narco-terrorists` attempting to disrupt the election. The President, who assumed office in November 2023, is the son of a wealthy tycoon and took over the remaining term of his predecessor, Guillermo Lasso.
Ecuador has seen a surge in violence as it grapples with numerous gangs involved in drug trafficking and other crimes. Initially a peaceful nation, Ecuador has transformed into a logistical center for drug shipments, particularly due to its geographic location between Colombia and Peru. The homicide rate in 2023 peaked at 47 per 100,000, prompting the current administration to declare a state of internal conflict following a drug lord’s jail escape.
Noboa’s government has implemented measures such as states of emergency and military deployments to address violent crime effectively, which reportedly reduced the homicide rate to 38 by 2024. In the upcoming election, President Noboa will compete against lawyer Luisa Gonzalez and indigenous leader Leonidas Iza. The previous electoral contest saw Noboa securing a substantial victory with 52.1% of the votes.
Ecuador’s history has seen a significant increase in violence related to organized crime and drug trafficking, particularly in recent years. Once considered a safe haven in South America, Ecuador has become embroiled in conflicts pertaining to its strategic location between major cannabis producers, leading to the entrenchment of criminal gangs. President Daniel Noboa’s rise to power and subsequent actions reflect ongoing efforts to restore stability amid escalating violence, especially concerning the narcotics trade.
In conclusion, President Noboa’s decision to close borders and increase military measures underscores the urgent need to address the escalating violence from organized crime in Ecuador. The upcoming election serves as a critical juncture for the country as it faces significant challenges due to the rampant influence of gangs and drug trafficking. The actions taken by Noboa’s administration illustrate its commitment to restore security and governance in the nation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
