Ecuador’s President Noboa Seeks Colombian Support Amid Electricity Crisis
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has requested help from Colombia amid an ongoing electricity crisis causing extensive power outages in Ecuador. His approval ratings are declining as he prepares for the 2025 elections. Noboa’s appeal aims to secure energy assistance from Colombian President Gustavo Petro as both countries face challenges from drought-induced limitations on energy production.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has reached out to Colombia for assistance in navigating an ongoing electricity crisis that has resulted in power outages lasting up to 14 hours per day since September 23. As the country currently grapples with these challenges, President Noboa candidly acknowledged that his approval ratings have suffered in light of the situation, especially with elections approaching on February 9, 2025. In a televised interview, President Noboa urged his Colombian counterpart, President Gustavo Petro, to provide aid to Ecuador, framing it as an urgent need. This appeal aligns with a forthcoming meeting between the two leaders scheduled at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, to be held in Cali. Noboa articulated, “I saw there in the press that (Petro) was talking about helping Ecuador, the first one should be him. We would be very grateful and it is not free, it is that he sells (energy).” On October 25, President Petro expressed solidarity for Ecuador’s plight via social media, indicating a call to arms for Latin American nations to support one another amid the ongoing crisis, which has been exacerbated by droughts impacting both countries. Colombia had previously ceased energy exports to Ecuador as of October 1, due to their own water shortages. Addressing his declining popularity, Noboa explained, “If I were a normal citizen, I would be upset with the president if there were blackouts, whether it is his fault or not, and that is what has been seen.” He noted that although the administration has encountered significant challenges, there is a sense among the populace that action is needed and anticipated solutions will soon restore normalcy in daily life. Noboa promised that by early December, conditions would improve, stating, “What matters is that at the beginning of December, people will have their lives back to normal.” Noboa, who ascended to the presidency on November 23 of the previous year, faces a competitive political landscape as he prepares for the upcoming elections. Various polling data from mid-September indicated that he was performing well among voters, although he will contend with at least 15 rivals, according to the National Electoral Council (CNE).
The electricity crisis in Ecuador has led to widespread power outages affecting everyday life, with citizens enduring up to 14 hours of blackouts daily. This situation emerged in the context of external challenges, including droughts that have hindered energy production and led Colombia to halt energy sales to Ecuador. President Daniel Noboa, who took office recently, must navigate this crisis while sustaining his popularity as he prepares for future elections. His appeal for assistance from Colombia signals the interdependence of neighboring countries in dealing with such environmental and energy challenges, particularly in the context of Latin America’s increasing focus on solidarity among nations.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador is calling for assistance from Colombia to alleviate an ongoing electricity crisis characterized by severe power outages affecting citizens for extended periods. As he faces declining popularity and an impending election, Noboa is seeking to assure the public that governmental measures will address the situation. The evolving circumstances underscore the interconnectedness of regional politics and energy security amid environmental challenges in Latin America.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
