Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has sought assistance from Colombia amid a severe electricity crisis resulting in daily power outages of up to 14 hours. Acknowledging a decline in his popularity ahead of the February 2025 elections, he reached out to Colombian President Gustavo Petro for support as both countries face drought-related challenges. Noboa expressed his commitment to restoring public trust by resolving these issues swiftly.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa has appealed to Colombia for assistance in addressing the country’s severe electricity crisis, which has led to power outages impacting households for up to 14 hours daily since September 23. During a televised interview, Noboa acknowledged the decline in his popularity as he prepares for the upcoming elections scheduled for February 9, 2025. He specifically reached out to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, emphasizing Ecuador’s needs as they approach a significant summit on biodiversity in Cali. Noboa mentioned, “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).” This follows a recent statement from Petro, who on October 25 suggested it was time for Latin American nations to show solidarity with Ecuador amid its electricity shortage, worsened by drought conditions affecting both countries. Colombia suspended energy sales to Ecuador on October 1 due to similar drought challenges. In light of the public outcry surrounding the energy situation, Noboa reflected on public sentiment, admitting, “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.” Despite conceding his popularity had suffered, he expressed confidence that the public ultimately desires effective action to restore normalcy in their lives by early December. Daniel Noboa, who took office on November 23 of the previous year, has been noted to have led in polls for the 2025 elections prior to the crisis unfolding, though he now faces at least 15 challengers as noted by the National Electoral Council (CNE).
The electricity crisis in Ecuador, characterized by extensive power cuts, has prompted President Daniel Noboa to seek assistance from neighboring Colombia. This request underscores the urgency of the situation, with recent outages reported to last as long as 14 hours a day. The issue has not only created practical challenges for citizens but has also impacted Noboa’s political standing ahead of upcoming electoral contests. The Ecuadorean government’s troubles have been exacerbated by ongoing drought conditions, which have similarly affected Colombia, leading to the latter’s decision to halt energy exports.
In conclusion, President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador is actively pursuing support from Colombia to mitigate the ongoing electricity crisis that has severely impacted households. This crisis presents not only an impending humanitarian concern but also politically jeopardizes Noboa’s standing ahead of the next presidential election. His plea for assistance comes as both countries grapple with similar environmental challenges. The outcome of these negotiations will be pivotal in determining the future of energy stability in Ecuador and Noboa’s prospects in the upcoming electoral landscape.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
