Ecuador Votes Amid Soaring Gang Violence and Crime Concerns

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Ecuadorians are casting their votes in a presidential election characterized by escalating drug-related violence linked to the cocaine trade. Current President Daniel Noboa and challenger Luisa González emerged as front-runners among 16 candidates, both pledging to address the nation’s rising crime rates, which have shaped voter sentiment since the 2023 elections, according to the Associated Press.

The increase in violence in Ecuador has seen the homicide rate decline from 46.18 per 100,000 individuals in 2023 to 38.76 per 100,000 in 2024, although it remains significantly higher than the 6.85 per 100,000 recorded in 2019. Mandatory voting has drawn over 13.7 million eligible voters, with concerns about personal safety and gang extortion influencing choices at the polls.

Voter sentiment is marked by frustration, particularly with Noboa's leadership. Marta Barres, a mother of three, articulated dissatisfaction with the current administration, stating, “Can he change things in four more years? No.” Meanwhile, González's campaign, associated with former President Rafael Correa, has faced challenges similar to her opponent in addressing crime and corruption.

If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff is set for April 13, 2025.

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