Ecuador’s presidential elections on February 9 set the stage for an essential runoff on April 13, where candidates Daniel Noboa and Luisa González face criticism for supporting extractivism and undermining Indigenous rights. The Indigenous movement led by Leonidas Iza may significantly influence the election outcome, as escalating violence and past oppression shape the political climate.
On February 9, Ecuador held presidential elections amid a significant political, economic, and social crisis. President Daniel Noboa and opposition candidate Luisa González will face off again in a runoff on April 13, a pivotal election that will influence the future of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Both candidates support continued extractivism and oil drilling, undermining Indigenous territorial rights and intensifying political repression against opponents.
Noboa, who garnered 44.6% of the vote, has presided over a term characterized by militarization, an escalating energy crisis, and human rights abuses. González, with 44.02% of the vote, represents former president Rafael Correa’s leftist policies aimed at expanding social programs, though she too has a history of escalating extractivism and political repression.
Leonidas Iza, leader of the Indigenous movement and the third political force, received 5.24% of the votes and is crucial in determining the election outcome. He has denounced extractivism and right-wing government policies, leading a strong grassroots opposition. As state violence continues and the Yasuní popular referendum remains unfulfilled, Indigenous actions aiming for climate justice and the cessation of crude oil extraction gain momentum.
Noboa began his presidency on November 23, 2023, after a controversial election scenario that avoided an impeachment trial for corruption. His tenure has seen soaring violence, making Ecuador one of the most dangerous countries, especially after he implemented Plan Fénix, emphasizing militarization and increased security spending without effectively curbing crime rates.
Human rights abuses have surged during Noboa’s presidency, with notable incidents such as the incineration of four Afro-descendant children by the military. Reports indicate an unprecedented rise in forced disappearances linked to his militaristic policies, highlighting an alarming pattern of state repression.
Noboa’s energy crisis further exacerbated the existing instability, stemming from inadequate investment in energy infrastructure and severe droughts, leading to extensive daily blackouts. These blackouts have negatively impacted the economy, resulting in significant financial losses.
In 2024, Noboa strengthened ties with the U.S., negotiating security and trade agreements while seeking international support. He proposed constitutional reforms that threaten Indigenous rights, including prior consultation and resistance, potentially undermining community efforts against extractive companies historically linked to the Noboa family.
The surge in illegal gold mining has posed new threats to Indigenous territorial governance, fueled by organized crime reinvesting drug profits into illicit activities. This upheaval has increased violence, extortion, and territorial conflicts, complicating the socio-environmental landscape in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Luisa González’s candidacy symbolizes the continuation of the Correísmo movement, notable for its state intervention in strategic sectors, despite a legacy marked by corruption and repression of dissent. While the movement retains popular support, it faces scrutiny from voters wary of its previous authoritarian measures and potential return to divisive governance.
The Indigenous movement, led by Leonidas Iza, remains a pivotal force capable of influencing the elections despite gaining only 5.24% of the votes. Historically, this movement has driven significant political changes in Ecuador, and its endorsement could sway the upcoming elections. The challenge lies in discerning their strategy when facing two candidates endorsing extractive policies and repressing Indigenous rights.
As elections approach, the Indigenous movement’s choices, whether to remain neutral, endorse a candidate with conditions, or reject both through a null vote, are critical. Their mobilization and organizational capacities make them key players in determining Ecuador’s political trajectory and the fate of the Amazon.
Ecuador’s upcoming runoff election is poised to be a crucial moment for the future of the Amazon and Indigenous rights. Both leading candidates, Noboa and González, advocate for extractivism, exacerbating socio-environmental tensions. With the Indigenous movement spearheaded by Leonidas Iza potentially tipping the electoral balance, their role will be vital in shaping the path towards climate justice and effective governance in the region.
Original Source: amazonwatch.org
