Ecuador Prepares for Election as Crime and Economic Crises Dominate

Voters will decide between President Daniel Noboa's hardline security policies and Luisa González's promises of social investment and reform.

Ecuadorians head to the polls on Sunday, facing a choice between incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist challenger Luisa González in a closely watched election.
Noboa's administration has focused on militarized crackdowns against powerful drug cartels, but critics argue these measures have failed to reduce violence significantly.
González, a protégé of former President Rafael Correa, advocates for social programs and economic reforms, leveraging nostalgia for Correa's leadership during a period of stability and growth.
The country is grappling with record-high murder rates, a deepening energy crisis caused by drought, and a struggling economy hampered by high debt and low investor confidence.
Polls suggest Noboa holds a lead, but with 16 candidates on the ballot, a runoff election in April remains a strong possibility.