The Indigenous community of Cochapamba, Ecuador, is uncertain about their options in the upcoming presidential runoff. Neither candidate—President Daniel Noboa or Luisa González—gained their trust or even campaigned in the area. Amid historical distrust toward politicians and past experiences, locals await direction from Indigenous leaders before voting.
In the highlands of Ecuador, the Indigenous community of Cochapamba must choose between two presidential candidates, neither of whom they trust. Neither President Daniel Noboa nor leftist lawyer Luisa González campaigned in Cochapamba, yet their performance in the upcoming election will be critical. Previously, these villagers showed loyalty to Indigenous leader Leonidas Iza, who finished third in recent votes.
Cochapamba, located over 12,000 feet above sea level and home to around 6,000 Indigenous people, heavily relies on white onion cultivation. In the recent election, Cochapamba residents trekked for hours to cast their votes. Electoral results indicated that Noboa garnered 37.6% support in Cotopaxi province, where Cochapamba is located, while González received 27.7%.
In an earlier election, over 72% of Cochapamba voters favored Noboa, despite never having met him. Local criticism of Noboa includes claims he has failed to fulfill campaign promises. González, perceived as politically inexperienced and tied to former President Rafael Correa, is viewed with skepticism due to Correa’s past authoritarian tendencies.
The community remains cautious due to their mistrust in political figures, shaped by past disappointments. As Gloria Llugsha stated, “I’d be deeply disappointed if all the candidates’ promises were forgotten,” reflecting a sentiment that politicians tend to forget their constituents after elections. The Indigenous confederation’s leadership will also play a significant role in guiding Cochapamba’s voting decision.
The Indigenous community in Cochapamba faces a dilemma in the upcoming election between candidates they do not trust. With a history of unfulfilled promises and political mismanagement, residents are skeptical about their choices. Their voting decision will rely heavily on the guidance of Indigenous leaders, highlighting the critical importance of representation and trust in political processes.
Original Source: apnews.com
