Ecuadorians are casting their votes in a presidential election reminiscent of the 2023 race, when conservative Daniel Noboa narrowly defeated leftist Luisa Gonzalez. With 16 candidates, Noboa and Gonzalez are frontrunners, aiming to address the alarming rise in crime attributed to cocaine trafficking from Colombia and Peru. Voter anger over personal safety issues, highlighted by comments from citizens like Marta Barres, underscores the urgency of the situation. More than 13.7 million are eligible to vote, and the election process, including potential runoffs, could significantly impact the country's governance and security landscape.
"For me, this president is disastrous," said Marta Barres, indicating a widespread frustration with the current administration and a strong desire for change among voters.
"He hasn't done anything. Barres, who must pay $25 (20) a month to a local gang to avoid harassment or worse, said she would vote for Gonzalez because she believed she could reduce crime across the board and improve the economy."
"The rise in violence across the South American country is linked to the trafficking of cocaine produced in neighbouring Colombia and Peru, indicating the severity of the crisis that voters seek to address in this election."
"Voting is mandatory in Ecuador, and with more than 13.7 million people eligible to vote, the election will have significant implications for the country’s future amid ongoing crises."
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