In Cochapamba, an Indigenous community in Ecuador’s highlands, residents confront a challenging election choice between President Daniel Noboa and Luisa González amidst distrust. Local loyalty leans towards Indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who placed third in previous elections. Amid concerns over unfulfilled promises and political dissatisfaction, community leaders will guide voter decisions in the upcoming runoff election.
In the remote Indigenous community of Cochapamba, located in Ecuador’s highlands, residents face a critical decision between two presidential candidates: President Daniel Noboa and leftist lawyer Luisa González. Neither candidate campaigned locally, leaving the community with a sense of distrust. This decision comes during the runoff election scheduled for April 13, following the dissolution of the national assembly and Noboa’s brief presidency, which focused on addressing crime issues.
Cochapamba, situated at over 3,600 meters (12,000 feet), is home to around 6,000 Indigenous people who primarily cultivate white onions. They communicate in Kichwa and Spanish and display loyalty to Leonidas Iza, an Indigenous leader who finished third in the last election. However, in the upcoming election, they must choose between Noboa and González, both of whom they regard with skepticism.
During the recent vote, the Cotopaxi province recorded 37.6% support for Noboa, while Iza garnered 29.3%, and González received 27.7%. In the previous election repeat, over 72% of Cochapamba voters favored Noboa, despite having never met him in person. The community’s upcoming decision hinges on how leadership will guide them in their choice.
Concern over unfulfilled political promises prevails in Cochapamba, with local residents expressing disappointment in political leadership. “We thought (Noboa) was a young man who was really going to make a difference, but up to this point, at least for me, he has lied,” stated Fernando Perdomo, a local government member. Residents are apprehensive regarding González’s political lineage, tying her to former President Rafael Correa, who they view negatively due to his treatment of Indigenous people.
The prevailing sentiment in Cochapamba is one of disappointment and disillusionment with political leaders. Gloria Llugsha, a resident, articulates this frustration by stating, “I’d be deeply disappointed if all the candidates’ promises were forgotten.” This reflects a broader concern that political figures recall their constituents only during elections, leaving them feeling neglected in the interim.
Cochapamba’s Indigenous community faces a significant electoral decision amidst distrust towards candidates they have never met. While support for Noboa is apparent from past voting behavior, skepticism over political integrity looms large, particularly regarding González’s association with former President Correa. The community’s eventual choice will likely be influenced by guidance from Indigenous leadership amid lingering concerns about political promises.
Original Source: www.local10.com
