Ecuador Faces Tight Presidential Race Between Noboa and Gonzalez

Incumbent Daniel Noboa and challenger Luisa Gonzalez present competing visions on tackling crime and economic challenges in a likely April runoff.

Ecuador's presidential election on Sunday is expected to result in a runoff between incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist challenger Luisa Gonzalez, as neither is projected to secure a first-round victory.
Noboa, 37, has emphasized his 'iron fist' approach to combating drug-related violence, touting a 15% drop in violent deaths during his first year in office but facing criticism for alleged human rights abuses and constitutional violations.
Gonzalez, a 47-year-old lawyer and protege of ex-president Rafael Correa, aims to become Ecuador's first elected female president, advocating for increased social spending and reforms targeting corruption in the judiciary.
Both candidates propose tough-on-crime policies, reflecting a broader regional trend, but Gonzalez has criticized Noboa's militarized approach and suggested exploring alternative strategies, including dialogue with certain groups.
The election comes as Ecuador grapples with escalating cartel-linked violence, economic stagnation, and political instability, with voters seeking solutions to restore security and economic growth.