Ecuador’s Assembly has moved forward with legislation regarding foreign military bases, returning the issue to a committee before a second debate. The Citizen Revolution party may need to align with other factions to oppose constitutional changes. A campaign against foreign bases is underway, highlighting past failures and invoking public support ahead of potential referendums.
Ecuador’s Assembly has approved a bill regarding foreign military bases in a first debate and returned it to a committee for further discussion. Gissela Garzón, Assemblywoman from Citizen Revolution (RC), indicated the possibility of asking for an extension, suggesting that the incoming legislature, beginning May 14th, will form a new committee to advance the report for a final debate.
In the new Assembly, the RC is set to hold the most seats, albeit not a majority. They may collaborate with the Pachakutik movement to oppose constitutional amendments necessary for establishing foreign military bases. President Noboa proposed this initiative after the Constitutional Court allowed changes to Article 5 of the Constitution that bans foreign military installations.
Should the Assembly approve the provision allowing foreign troops in the country, the citizens will face a referendum to decide the matter. The Coordinator for Peace, Sovereignty, and Non-Interference (CPAZ) openly opposes foreign military bases, launching a digital campaign to assert national sovereignty and the right to self-determination. They argue that prior foreign bases have failed to enhance security and have aggravated social inequality.
CPAZ, in collaboration with the global movement A World Beyond War, has begun collecting signatures against the proposed bases to present to the National Assembly. They recalled the negative impacts of the Manta Base (1999-2009), which included human rights violations and insufficient outcomes in combating drug trafficking.
The future of military bases in Ecuador hinges on the decisions of the upcoming legislature, which may align with opposition movements to prevent foreign military presence. Public sentiment against such bases is strengthening through coordinated campaigns emphasizing national sovereignty and historical context. The ongoing legislative process will ultimately lead to a referendum, ensuring that citizens have a say in this significant matter.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
