Ecuador’s Vice President Veronica Abad Suspended Amid Political Turmoil
Ecuador’s Vice President Veronica Abad has been suspended for two years by a court for allegedly committing gender violence, while claiming the ruling is politically motivated. She faces a fine of USD $14,100, potentially impacting her role as Vice President. Abad has called the suspension a distraction from more pressing national issues.
On February 27, Ecuadorian judge Guillermo Ortega Caicedo suspended Vice President Veronica Abad’s political rights for two years and imposed a fine of USD $14,100 for gender violence. This ruling from the Ecuadorian Electoral Dispute Settlement Court jeopardizes her role as Vice President and hinders her ability to fulfill public duties. Abad’s political troubles have compounded following a prior suspension of 150 days that was recently overturned.
Abad asserts that the current ruling is politically motivated, claiming President Daniel Noboa aims to undermine her and distract from pressing political issues facing the nation. The allegations against her originated from Chancellor Gabriela Sommerfeld, who accused Abad of engaging in political gender violence, emphasizing the broader implications of such accusations under Ecuador’s electoral laws, which are designed to protect women’s political rights.
The judge’s findings indicate that Abad disseminated harmful gender stereotypes through virtual platforms, adversely impacting Sommerfeld’s reputation. Prior to this ruling, Abad had also faced suspension in November 2024 due to allegations of neglecting her official responsibilities. This ongoing controversy occurs in a politically charged environment as a runoff election approaches in May 2024.
In an attempt to draw attention to her challenges, Abad highlighted issues of forced disappearances and violence against marginalized groups in Ecuador. She has characterized her suspension as a distraction away from significant societal concerns. Currently, Planning Minister Sariha Moya serves as interim Vice President while Abad considers appealing the recent ruling through the legal system, a process that may extend up to three months.
The suspension of Vice President Veronica Abad highlights significant tensions within Ecuador’s government and raises questions regarding political motivations behind legal actions. Amidst her ongoing struggles, Abad seeks to appeal the ruling that threatens her political future, while also advocating for awareness of pressing social issues in Ecuador. This situation reflects the complex interplay between gender politics and governance in the nation, particularly as a crucial election approaches.
Original Source: latinamericareports.com
