Ecuador’s President Noboa Closes Borders for Election Amid Violence Threats
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has announced a three-day closure of the country’s borders in response to threats posed by armed groups, coinciding with a presidential election in which he is a candidate. Noboa also intends to strengthen military deployment in vulnerable areas after a rise in violence connected to drug trafficking gangs.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared a three-day closure of the nation’s borders, beginning Saturday and coinciding with the presidential election on Sunday, in which he is a candidate. The decision aims to counter destabilization attempts by armed groups, as stated on his social media platform. Noboa also plans to enhance military presence in border regions and implement immediate militarization of ports.
Daniel Noboa, age 37, assumed presidency in November 2023 after Guillermo Lasso called for early elections to sidestep impeachment due to corruption allegations. Following a surge in violence triggered by a drug lord’s jail escape, Noboa declared Ecuador in “internal armed conflict” in January 2024. The country, once safer compared to its neighbors Peru and Colombia, has turned into a drug trafficking hub, plagued by conflicts between numerous gangs.
In conclusion, the closure of Ecuador’s borders and the military measures signify President Noboa’s response to escalating violence and threats posed by drug-related gangs. As he contests the forthcoming election, his administration emphasizes law and order while facing a challenging security landscape. Standing against him is left-wing candidate Luisa Gonzalez, setting the stage for a pivotal electoral battle.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
