Ecuador’s CONAIE and allied groups will not endorse President Daniel Noboa in the April runoff, instead requesting leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez to respond to their proposals, including halting privatization and lowering sales taxes. The Indigenous vote is split, with some factions supporting Noboa, complicating the political dynamics ahead of the election.
The Ecuadorian Indigenous organization CONAIE, alongside leftist social entities, announced their refusal to support the incumbent president, Daniel Noboa, in the upcoming April runoff. Instead, they have requested leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez to address a series of proposals from their coalition. The Indigenous voting demographic appears split, with some factions indicating support for Noboa, who narrowly defeated Gonzalez by less than one percent in the first round of voting.
CONAIE’s leader, Leonidas Iza, who secured 5.25% of the vote, is posited to play a significant role in influencing the runoff outcome. Although CONAIE has been critical of Noboa’s policies related to security and the economy, various Indigenous and social groups have opted to extend their support to him for a complete term.
Key proposals presented to Gonzalez include ceasing privatization and large-scale mining initiatives, as well as terminating Noboa’s aggressive stance against criminal organizations. Additionally, they seek a reduction of the sales tax from 15% back to 12% and oppose Ecuador’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Meanwhile, the CONFENIAE, which represents Amazonian Indigenous groups and is affiliated with CONAIE, has expressed support for Noboa but seeks constructive dialogue concerning policies impacting the Amazon.
Moreover, the political faction represented by Andrea Gonzalez, who placed fourth with 2.69% in the February election, has also pledged its support for Noboa.
The political landscape in Ecuador remains complex, with Indigenous organizations like CONAIE and CONFENIAE navigating their support between candidates Daniel Noboa and Luisa Gonzalez. Their proposals reflect significant concerns regarding privatization, taxation, and the approach to security. As the April runoff approaches, the factional divide among Indigenous voters will likely influence the electoral outcome substantially.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
