As Ecuador heads to the polls, two candidates vie for power: incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist Luisa Gonzalez. Will their promises of economic growth, social programs, and tough-on-crime policies be enough to address the country’s pressing issues?
With over 13 million people eligible to vote, Ecuador is set to head to the polls on Sunday for a closely fought second round in the presidential election. Incumbent Daniel Noboa, who has been president for just over 16 months, faces leftist Luisa Gonzalez, whom he beat in a 2023 race to finish out his predecessor’s term.
Ecuador is a country located in northwest South America, bordering Colombia and Peru.
With a population of approximately 18 million people, it has a diverse geography featuring the Andes mountain range, Amazon rainforest, and Pacific coastlines.
The official language is Spanish, and its capital city is Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
The Candidates’ Vows
Both candidates have promised to fight surging drug violence and crime, which has become a major concern for voters. ‘We need to take action against the cartels and gangs that are terrorizing our communities,’ said Noboa, of the National Democratic Action party. He predicted 4% economic growth in 2025 if his policies are continued. He pledged to prevent new energy cuts, boost the oil sector with private investment, and distribute payouts to people affected by an oil spill and small businesses hit by flooding.
On the other hand, Gonzalez, of the Citizens’ Revolution party, has promised to revive social programs enacted by former President ‘Rafael Correa’ during his decade in power. She would be the first woman elected president of Ecuador if she wins.
Tough-on-Crime Policies
Both candidates have vowed to take tough-on-crime policies, better equipment for law enforcement, and international help to fight drug cartels and local criminal groups. The homicide rate in Ecuador has dropped from 46.18 per 100,000 people in 2023 to 38.76 per 100,000 people in 2024, but the rate remains far higher than the 6.85 homicides per 100,000 people seen in 2019.
The Stakes are High
Voters are primarily worried about the violence and a spike in crime tied to the trafficking of cocaine produced in neighboring Colombia and Peru. Unemployment has risen too. The outcome of this election is crucial for Ecuador’s future, with the country facing significant challenges in terms of economic growth, security, and social development.
Ecuador's economy has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the country's rich natural resources and strategic location.
The service sector is the largest contributor to GDP, accounting for over 50% of total output.
Ecuador's tourism industry has also seen a surge in popularity, with visitors drawn to the country's unique 'biodiversity' and cultural heritage.
However, the economy remains vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices and climate-related events.
The Candidates’ Records
Noboa has essentially stayed on in a caretaker role since 2023, when his predecessor stepped down amid impeachment proceedings. ‘We need to get back on track and create opportunities for our people,’ said Gonzalez, who has been a lawmaker and a lawyer, with a strong background in politics. The two candidates have largely unknown reputations among most voters, who are eager to see real change.
Daniel Noboa is a Panamanian businessman and politician.
He was born in Panama City, Panama.
Noboa has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate and finance.
In addition to his business career, Noboa has also pursued a career in politics, serving as the Mayor of Panama City from 2004 to 2009.
During his tenure, he implemented several infrastructure projects aimed at improving the city's transportation system and public services.
The Polls Open
Polls are set to open at 07:00 local time (14:00 CEST, 12:00 GMT) and close at 17:00 local time (00:00 Monday CEST, 22:00 GMT). With over 45,000 polling place observers from both candidates and former President ‘Rafael Correa’‘s team, the atmosphere is tense.
