Ecuador’s Indigenous organization CONAIE and leftist groups refuse to back President Noboa in the April run-off, urging candidate Luisa Gonzalez to address their proposals. The Indigenous vote is split, with some backing Noboa. Key demands include halting privatizations, reducing sales tax, and opposing the IMF deal, while some groups, like CONFENIAE, intend to support Noboa under certain conditions.
The Ecuadorian Indigenous organization CONAIE and various leftist social groups have announced their refusal to support the current president, Daniel Noboa, in the upcoming April run-off election. Instead, they are urging leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez to respond to a list of demands. The Indigenous vote is split, as some factions express support for Noboa, making the election outcome more uncertain.
Incumbent President Daniel Noboa, a 37-year-old businessman, narrowly won the initial February election against Gonzalez, a protégé of ex-President Rafael Correa, by less than 1%. Given that Gonzalez represents a significant leftist stance, the narrow margin implies potential crucial influences by Leonidas Iza, CONAIE leader and former candidate, who received 5.25% of the votes. His support could sway the final results in the run-off.
CONAIE has voiced concerns regarding Noboa’s policies on security and economic stability. While some Indigenous factions still intend to support Noboa, the broader coalition seeks to send clear demands to Gonzalez. Proposed changes include halting privatizations, ceasing large-scale mining projects, and retracting Noboa’s aggressive stance against crime. Additionally, they demand the reduction of sales tax from 15% back down to 12% and opposition to the government’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund.
Conversely, the CONFENIAE, representing Indigenous interests in Ecuador’s Amazon, plans to support Noboa, contingent upon engaging in discussions regarding policies impacting the region. Moreover, former candidate Andrea Gonzalez’s party, which finished fourth in the February election with 2.69% of the vote, also announced its intention to back Noboa in the run-off election.
In summary, the political landscape in Ecuador’s upcoming election showcases a fragmented Indigenous voter base. CONAIE and allied organizations are leveraging their influence by presenting clear policy demands to both candidates while initiating negotiations with Noboa. This strategic positioning may significantly affect the run-off results, emphasizing the importance of addressing Indigenous concerns in presidential governance.
In conclusion, the dynamics of Ecuador’s upcoming presidential election illustrate a divided Indigenous vote with significant implications for both candidates. The CONAIE organization is actively seeking responses from Luisa Gonzalez regarding their proposals while also influencing the incumbent, Daniel Noboa. With varying support from Indigenous groups, the outcome hinges on responsiveness to these critical concerns, showcasing the importance of Indigenous political engagement in shaping national policies.
Original Source: gazette.com
