President Daniel Noboa Questions Validity of Ecuador’s Election Results
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has questioned the legitimacy of the recent election results, citing irregularities. Independent observers from the OAS and European Union dismissed his claims, affirming the validity of the vote. Noboa and his opponent, Luisa Gonzalez, are set for a run-off election in April 2025, amid ongoing tensions and accusations between both camps.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has raised concerns regarding the validity of the recent presidential election first-round results, suggesting numerous “irregularities.” In an interview with Radio Centro, he expressed skepticism while refraining from providing concrete evidence of alleged misconduct. Noboa stated, “There have been many irregularities, and we are still counting,” indicating ongoing scrutiny in specific provinces where discrepancies were perceived.
However, independent election observers, including missions from the Organization of American States (OAS) and the European Union, refuted Noboa’s claims, affirming that they found no significant irregularities to question the results. The OAS noted that they have not identified evidence of widespread discrepancies that would impact the election outcome. Gabriel Mato, a representative of the European Parliament, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the absence of objective elements indicating fraud.
The election resulted in Noboa and his left-wing opponent, Luisa Gonzalez, almost tied, each acquiring Approximately 44% of the votes, necessitating a run-off. Mato expressed regret over the unfolding narrative of election fraud, stating, “There is no objective evidence to support this accusation or narrative.” Noboa and Gonzalez have a history of rivalry, solidified in the preceding election where they faced off after President Guillermo Lasso’s unexpected dissolution of the National Assembly.
Noboa is a prominent figure with connections to the banana industry and initially seemed an unlikely candidate when he ran against Gonzalez, a protégé of former President Rafael Correa, currently in exile amid corruption charges. Following their previous election, Noboa emerged victorious with 52% against Gonzalez’s 48%. Their contentious relationship sparked renewed conflict as they now prepare for the April 2025 run-off election.
In his recent interview, Noboa accused Gonzalez’s Citizen Revolution party of orchestrating vote manipulation through criminal actions, stating he had evidence to support his allegations, though none was presented. He commended Ecuadorians for voting despite reported threats against them, saying, “I am proud of the way in which the great majority of Ecuadorians behaved in these elections.”
In response, Gonzalez forcefully denied Noboa’s implications, asserting on social media that her supporters were not criminals, while also criticizing Noboa for not adequately addressing the country’s escalating crime rates. Furthermore, she criticized Noboa’s recent campaigning practices, which had been deemed unconstitutional. Former President Correa joined the discourse, deriding Noboa and his supporters for their allegations.
With both Noboa and Gonzalez advancing to the crucial run-off scheduled for April 13, their ongoing conflict will continue to play a significant role in shaping Ecuador’s political landscape.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa has expressed doubts about the integrity of Ecuador’s recent presidential election, suggesting irregularities without providing supporting evidence. Independent observers have dismissed his claims, confirming the election’s validity. As Noboa and Gonzalez prepare for the upcoming run-off, their rivalry highlights the tense political climate in Ecuador, marked by mutual accusations and significant challenges, particularly concerning crime and governance.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
