Daniel Noboa was sworn in as President of Ecuador, reaffirming his commitment to a ‘war’ on crime, increased trade openness, and investment in the energy sector. He won the recent elections against Luisa González and criticized previous governments for corruption. Noboa plans to support youth employment while pursuing a nuclear energy law and enhancing natural gas production to tackle energy issues.
Ecuador witnessed a significant political transition as President Daniel Noboa and Vice President Maria Jose Pinto were sworn in for their new mandate spanning from 2025 to 2029. During his inauguration, Noboa emphasized a continuation of his previous policies, focusing on a vigorous campaign against organized crime, promoting trade, attracting investments, and reforming the energy sector. Notably, he secured victory in the recent elections, garnering 55.63% of the valid votes in a second-round contest against Luisa González, who has yet to substantiate her claims of election fraud.
In a robust address, Noboa criticized former administrations for their mismanagement of the country’s resources and for fostering an atmosphere of persecution against political opponents, including himself. “This country has had governments that persecuted people, and today it has a president and a vice president who were persecuted and who are now authorities,” he stated, reflecting on the tumultuous political history.
Central to his agenda is the ongoing struggle against rising violence associated with criminal gangs, a “war” Noboa initiated in January 2024 during his first term. He expressed his commitment to not shy away from conflicts that have plagued the nation, asserting, “I know that my duty is not to distance myself from a conflict because it has never been resolved…” He underscored his support for the military and police, as evidenced by a proposed bill that would allow the president the discretionary power to grant early pardons to law enforcement officers facing allegations of human rights violations.
Noboa, hailing from one of Ecuador’s wealthiest families, also vowed to lead with transparency and combat corruption. He articulated a mission to undermine the interests of oligarchies that have profited at the expense of the state’s integrity and the well-being of families. His administration aims to further open Ecuador’s economy to exports and foreign investments, a step crucial for recovery after a 2% contraction in 2024. Noboa anticipates job creation, particularly for young people, via loans, internships, and skill-building programs to reduce the desire to emigrate.
On the energy front, Noboa is poised to introduce a nuclear energy law to diversify Ecuador’s energy resources. This is in response to the recent electricity rationing that saw citizens enduring up to fourteen-hour blackouts due to drought impacts on hydroelectricity. He advocates for boosted natural gas production from the Gulf of Guayaquil, joining forces with both public and international private stakeholders.
The inauguration ceremony saw attendance from leaders of 74 nations, which Noboa interpreted as a confidence vote in Ecuador’s new governance and commitment to establishing a secure investment environment. Noteworthy attendees included Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, reflecting the regional ties between these neighboring countries. Noboa’s administration indeed appears to be aiming at an ambitious roadmap, positioning Ecuador on a path toward renewal and growth.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa’s inauguration marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to combat crime, enhance trade, attract foreign investment, and diversify Ecuador’s energy sector. His government intends to uphold transparency and tackle corruption while creating opportunities for the youth. The proposed legislative measures on nuclear energy and natural gas production signify a strategic shift in the nation’s approach to energy challenges. Noboa’s outreach to international leaders underscores a desire for collaborative progress in the region.
Original Source: efe.com
