Ecuador has closed polls for its general election featuring presidential candidates Daniel Noboa and Luisa González. A candidate must secure more than 50% of the votes to win outright or at least 40% with a 10-point lead to avoid a runoff. Noboa’s tenure has focused on combating crime, while González plans to also address the drug trade vigorously.
Polling stations in Ecuador have closed as the nation votes in a general election featuring 16 presidential candidates, including the current president, Daniel Noboa, and his principal competitor, Luisa González. To secure a win in the initial round, a candidate must achieve over 50% of the vote or, alternatively, obtain 40% while leading by 10 percentage points over the nearest rival.
Ecuador is grappling with significant challenges, including a serious crime crisis, which President Noboa has addressed through emergency measures and military deployments to combat gang violence. His government has also initiated the construction of a new maximum-security prison following a high-profile escape. Luisa González, who previously finished second in the 2023 elections, represents a leftist platform keen on revitalizing the nation amidst these pervasive issues.
The outcome of this election will be critical as it will shape Ecuador’s approach to pressing concerns such as safety, economic stability, and energy challenges. With the election potentially leading to a runoff on April 13, the country stands at a pivotal juncture regarding its leadership and direction.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
