Sitting centre-right President Daniel Noboa has won Ecuador’s presidential run-off election, securing a full four-year term and a decisive mandate to continue his tough stance against criminal gangs.
The 37-year-old described his victory as “historic”, coming less than a year after first taking office in November 2023 following a snap election. He claimed a clear lead of about 56% of the vote, defeating left-wing challenger Luisa González, who has rejected the outcome and alleged fraud without providing evidence.
“A victory of more than ten points and over 1 million votes, leaving no doubt as to who the winner is,” Noboa declared after the results were confirmed.
He attributed his win to the “perseverance, struggle, and hard work” of his campaign team and supporters.
Noboa has so far defined his leadership through a military crackdown on drug gangs, including militarising prisons and streets, and announcing plans to build new maximum-security prisons. Though homicide rates have slightly decreased, Ecuador remains one of the most violent countries in Latin America.
In January alone, over 780 murders were recorded — one of the deadliest months in Ecuador’s history.
Noboa is seeking constitutional reforms to allow foreign military bases, previously banned under former president Rafael Correa, González’s mentor. He has also requested support from foreign militaries, including those of the US and Europe, to combat drug cartels.
The election campaign saw security as the top priority for many Ecuadorians, but Noboa also promised to tackle unemployment, energy insecurity, and corruption. His renewable energy push follows criticism over severe power cuts triggered by drought-related hydropower shortages.
He has further tightened immigration, repealing amnesty for undocumented Venezuelan migrants, and introduced 27% tariffs on Mexican imports.
Aimed largely at young voters, Noboa’s campaign emphasised job creation, digital engagement, and modern infrastructure investment. He has also expressed interest in deepening ties with the United States and Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, González’s defeat has deepened political polarisation. Her supporters, many of whom reminisce about Ecuador’s Correa-era economic boom, have rallied behind her call for a recount.
However, without evidence, such a demand is unlikely to succeed — leaving Noboa with the challenge of uniting a divided nation while proving that his security strategy is effective.
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