Just 18 months ago, Daniel Noboa, 37, made history by becoming the youngest man ever elected as Ecuador’s president. Now, he is facing the polls once again, this time vying for a full four-year term in the presidential palace. In a race against 15 contenders, including his main competition from the last election, left-wing lawmaker Luisa Gonzalez, Noboa’s brief stint in office is under scrutiny. Known as a law-and-order candidate, Noboa has implemented measures to expand law enforcement powers, but violence and organized crime continue to plague Ecuador. The upcoming election on Sunday, February 9 will determine whether Noboa can secure more than 50 percent of the vote to win outright, or if a second round of voting on April 13 will be necessary. In addition to the presidential race, all seats in the National Assembly are up for grabs in this general election. Noboa’s term in office has been cut short due to his predecessor’s impeachment and the use of a constitutional mechanism called the “muerte cruzada”. Despite leading in most polls, Noboa’s tough stance on crime may face challenges from competitors like Luisa Gonzalez and other candidates, as voters prioritize issues such as rising costs of living, lack of economic opportunities, and the alarming levels of crime and insecurity in the country. The surge in violence in Ecuador has prompted calls for harsh solutions, with Noboa declaring a state of internal armed conflict and expanding the military’s role in law enforcement activities. However, critics warn of abuses and question the effectiveness of these measures in combating crime. As the election nears, tough-on-crime rhetoric dominates the political landscape in Ecuador.
