Luisa González, the left-wing presidential candidate in Ecuador, has denounced that her life is at risk after her military security team was replaced by government order just two days before the runoff elections. This move comes amidst the country’s struggle with drug trafficking violence.
Key Points:
- Security Change: González claims her military security team, assigned following serious threats against her, was replaced without adequate replacements being confirmed by authorities.
- Government Response: The Ministry of Defense stated that all agents and special forces assigned to González’s security are qualified to ensure her protection, maintaining the same number of personnel and vehicles.
- Violence Concerns: Ecuador has faced high levels of violence, with over 30 political figures, judicial authorities, and journalists killed in recent years. In January and February alone, the country saw a homicide every hour.
- Accusations and Counter-accusations: González accused her rival, Daniel Noboa, along with the Minister of Defense and Chief of Joint Command of the Armed Forces, of irresponsible actions. Noboa has denied these allegations.
González, a 47-year-old lawyer, obtained support from the main indigenous bloc and faces Noboa in Sunday’s tight presidential race, shadowed by the assassination of a previous candidate. The security changes have heightened tensions ahead of the critical election.
