Ecuador Votes Today in Presidential Election Amid Security Crisis

Ecuador's presidential election on February 11 features incumbent Daniel Noboa and his main rival, leftist Luisa Gonzalez, amidst a national crisis marked by rising violence and economic struggles. Noboa, who assumed office in 2023, has adopted a hardline approach to crime, deploying military forces and claiming a reduction in violent deaths by 15%. Gonzalez, however, argues for a more comprehensive response that includes social justice initiatives alongside tough crime measures. With mandatory voting, over 14 million Ecuadorans are eligible to cast their ballots, and a candidate must secure 50% of the vote or 40% with a 10-point lead to win outright, or face a runoff on April 13 if not. The stakes are high, as many voters fear for their safety due to rampant drug-related violence linked to drug trafficking routes through Ecuador. The election is seen as a critical decision point for the country, pondering whether to continue with Noboa's policies or shift towards Gonzalez's proposed reforms.