Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has questioned the legitimacy of the recent election results, citing “irregularities,” though independent observers found no evidence to support his claims. The upcoming run-off election between Noboa and rival Luisa Gonzalez is set for April, heightening political tensions as both candidates confront past accusations and challenges related to rising crime in Ecuador.
President Daniel Noboa has raised doubts regarding the validity of the recent presidential election results in Ecuador, alleging that there were “irregularities” in the first round of voting. In an interview on Ecuador’s Radio Centro, he expressed skepticism over the tallies, though he did not provide any evidence to support his claims. Noboa stated, “There have been many irregularities, and we are still counting,” referencing discrepancies in certain provinces of the voting process.
However, independent observers, including the Organization of American States (OAS), contend that the official results align with their findings. The OAS confirmed, “The mission, to date, has not identified or received indications of widespread irregularities that could alter the results of the election.” Additionally, the European Union’s election monitoring group echoed this assertion, emphasizing a lack of evidence for any fraudulent activity.
The first round concluded in a near tie between Noboa and his rival, Luisa Gonzalez, with both candidates receiving approximately 44 percent of the votes. As both parties prepare for a run-off, election observer Gabriel Mato remarked, “I deeply regret that, in addition to misinformation, there has been a certain narrative of fraud in these elections.” He highlighted the absence of objective evidence supporting claims of misconduct.
Daniel Noboa and Luisa Gonzalez have a contentious history, having competed fiercely in their previous electoral encounters. In a prior election, Noboa emerged victorious over Gonzalez, winning 52 percent to her 48 percent. Presently, with Gonzalez a prominent contender, the two candidates are set to face off again in a run-off election scheduled for April 13, intending to solidify their political positions in light of Ecuador’s ongoing challenges.
In his recent interview, Noboa characterized Gonzalez’s party as engaging in unethical behavior, suggesting her supporters were releasing criminals to influence the electorate. He commended Ecuadorians for voting amidst reported threats, stating, “I am proud of the way in which the great majority of Ecuadorians behaved in these elections.” While he claimed to possess evidence for his assertions, none were disclosed during the interview.
In response, Luisa Gonzalez fiercely criticized Noboa’s allegations, asserting that her supporters are not criminals. She pointed out Noboa’s failures in managing rising crime rates and decried his unconstitutional campaign conduct. Former President Rafael Correa also commented on the situation, labeling Noboa’s camp as “bad losers.”
In summary, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has cast doubt on the election results, citing irregularities, which independent observers refute, confirming the validity of the outcomes. With both he and Luisa Gonzalez advancing to a run-off election, the political tension between the two rivals remains palpable. Observations from electoral monitors underscore a lack of evidence for fraud, amidst accusations exchanged between the candidates. The upcoming election in April will be a pivotal moment for both political figures and the nation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
