In Ecuador, a voting certificate is a crucial document required for various transactions, from bank loans to university enrollment. Despite the lack of a legal framework mandating its presentation, public and private entities continue to request it. The practice, deeply rooted in Ecuadorian customs, persists even though recent laws and presidential decisions have aimed to eliminate such requirements. The voting certificate, which confirms participation in elections, has been a part of Ecuadorian civil processes since 1947 and is considered a minor electoral infraction if not requested by institutions.

The article discusses the aftermath of 18 days of violent protests in Ecuador, highlighting the deepened social and economic fractures. It underscores the plight of impoverished indigenous communities and the significant economic losses, particularly in the floriculture and dairy industries. The fragile peace achieved through dialogue is threatened by President Lasso's controversial statements linking the protests to narcotrafficking. The text calls for responsible political leadership and tangible government actions to address underlying issues and prevent future unrest.

Since Guillermo Lasso assumed the presidency of Ecuador in May 2021, his wife, María de Lourdes Alcívar, has played a confusing role in public life. Although she participates in various events, she holds no official position and is not subject to public accountability. This lack of accountability is problematic in a weak democracy. Alcívar has been involved in events related to emergency services, gender violence, and mental health, often speaking from a position of privilege without the necessary credentials. Her opposition to abortion rights and her controversial statements on gender violence have drawn criticism. Despite her active public role, she avoids scrutiny, as seen when she refused to testify about the Pandora Papers. The article argues that the role of the First Lady is outdated and calls for greater accountability if she continues to engage in public activities.

The article provides an overview of the political landscape in Ecuador's National Assembly for the 2023-2025 period. It details the number of seats won by various political parties and alliances, including Revolución Ciudadana, Partido Social Cristiano, Alianza Democrática Nacional, Construye, Partido Sociedad Patriótica, and Pachakutik. Key political figures and their histories are highlighted, along with the political dynamics and alliances that shaped the election outcomes. The article also mentions notable re-elected legislators and their past political activities.

Daniel Noboa, previously an underdog in the Ecuadorian elections, surprised many by securing a spot in the second round. His campaign avoided the traditional anti-Correa rhetoric, focusing instead on his own proposals, such as judicial reforms and environmental policies. The assassination of Fernando Villavicencio shifted the electoral landscape, impacting both Correa's supporters and opponents. Noboa's rise suggests a potential shift away from the polarized Correa vs. anti-Correa narrative. However, scrutiny remains essential, especially regarding allegations from his ex-wife and the controversial views of his running mate, Verónica Abad.

Xavier Hervas, a political candidate backed by the Reto organization, discusses his views on drug policy, security, and environmental issues. He opposes the current drug consumption table and proposes temporary militarization of ports and airports to combat drug trafficking. Hervas also expresses his stance on the Yasuní and Chocó Andino regions, opposing mining in the latter while supporting continued oil exploitation in the former. He addresses potential alliances in the National Assembly and suggests reforms to the penal code to prevent sentence reductions for severe crimes and corruption.

Ecuador faces a critical moment as violence escalates, with recent prison riots in Esmeraldas and Guayas provinces spilling into the streets and leading to numerous deaths. The assassination of Manta's mayor, Agustín Intriago, and the death of young footballer Ariana Chancay highlight the dire situation. Five journalists have fled the country due to safety concerns, and there's a reported kidnapping of three Comptroller's Office officials in Los Ríos. Amidst pre-election context, there's fear that the public's desperation for security could lead to the rise of a strongman leader, potentially undermining democracy. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining democratic values while addressing the country's security issues.

The CPCCS has recommended that the Attorney General's Office investigate Diana Salazar for alleged influence peddling and plagiarism, following an investigation prompted by the Acción Jurídica Popular collective. The University of Central Ecuador's academic audit commission found no plagiarism in Salazar's thesis, despite citation errors. Alembert Vera, CPCCS president and known correísmo supporter, has accused the Attorney General's Office of persecution. Vera's past involvement in a controversial legal case against El Universo and Emilio Palacio is also highlighted, with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruling against the Ecuadorian state for violating freedom of expression.

Bolívar Armijos Velasco, an Ecuadorian lawyer and former member of the Revolución Ciudadana, was a presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, finishing eighth. He announced his pre-candidacy for the 2025 general elections. Armijos has a history of political involvement, including a potential candidacy with former President Rafael Correa, and has faced allegations of electoral fraud and financial irregularities during his tenure at CONAGOPARE. Supported by the Amigo movement, Armijos aligns with pro-life values and has a legal background from the Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres de Esmeraldas.

Bolívar Armijos Velasco, an attorney from Esmeraldas and former member of the Revolución Ciudadana, was one of eight presidential candidates in Ecuador's early 2023 elections, finishing eighth with over 35,000 votes. Following the dissolution of the National Assembly and the application of the 'muerte cruzada', Armijos announced his pre-candidacy for the 2025 general elections. He was previously considered for a presidential bid in 2021 but was replaced by Andrés Arauz. In 2023, Armijos was supported by the political movement Amigo, linked to former Alianza País assembly member Daniel Mendoza. Armijos, who identifies as 'pro-life', holds a law degree from the Universidad Técnica Luis Vargas Torres de Esmeraldas and is a founder of CONAGOPARE. The Comptroller's Office reported irregularities in CONAGOPARE's financial management, and two reports with indications of criminal responsibility were sent to the Prosecutor's Office, although no judicial processes for these allegations are recorded.

The article critiques the decision of the Ecuadorian political party CREO not to field candidates in the upcoming elections following President Guillermo Lasso's announcement that he will not run for re-election. It argues that this decision reflects poorly on the party's understanding of political roles and its future without Lasso. The article suggests that CREO's existence seems tied solely to Lasso's leadership, questioning the party's ability to sustain itself and form necessary political alliances. The piece also highlights the failure of CREO to learn from its time in government and its inability to manage long-term political agreements.

Pedro Granja, a lawyer with a background in social sciences and criminology, has been a prominent figure in Ecuadorian politics, known for his outspoken views and potential candidacy for the presidency. He has been involved in various political activities, including a failed attempt to revoke President Guillermo Lasso's mandate and criticism of the Fiscal General Diana Salazar. Granja has also represented notable figures in legal cases and is active on social media, where he often engages in confrontational discourse. His political stance aligns with the socialist party, and he has received support from indigenous organizations.

Guillermo Lasso's two years in office have been marked by a successful vaccination campaign, a significant rise in violent crime, and a severe institutional crisis within the National Police. The period also saw a violent national strike led by indigenous groups, a lack of political agreements, and multiple corruption accusations involving high-profile figures. Economically, the government achieved a free trade agreement with China and passed a controversial tax reform. The political landscape remains unstable, with Lasso invoking the 'muerte cruzada' to dissolve the National Assembly amid an impeachment process.

Ecuador's President's decision to invoke a 'muerte cruzada' and dissolve the National Assembly, while constitutional, poses a threat to democracy. The Constitution of Montecristi, promoted by Rafael Correa, allows for such an action, but it undermines the balance of state powers. The article argues that despite the Assembly's flaws and the public's dissatisfaction with its legislators, it remains a crucial component of democratic governance. The author warns against the temptation to support authoritarian measures and urges the country to work towards improving its representatives rather than settling for a compromised democracy.

The article criticizes the governance of President Guillermo Lasso, highlighting his administration's failures in budget execution and rising insecurity. It discusses the political trial against Lasso, led by the National Assembly, and criticizes the assembly members' handling of the trial, particularly focusing on Viviana Veloz and her accusations of corruption. The article also mentions the potential use of 'muerte cruzada' by Lasso to dissolve the assembly and the opposition's stance on this issue. The overall tone is critical of both the president and the assembly members involved in the trial.

A series of violent attacks and assassinations have targeted mayors in Ecuador during the period 2023-2027. Notable incidents include the assassination of Jorge Maldonado, mayor of Portovelo, and José Sánchez, mayor of Camilo Ponce Enríquez. Brigitte García, mayor of San Vicente, and Agustín Intriago, mayor of Manta, were also killed. The attacks have been linked to criminal organizations such as Los Lobos. Authorities are investigating these incidents, and local governments have expressed their condolences and commitment to enhancing security.

The article lists the new secretaries of the Municipality of Quito, many of whom have previously held public office during Rafael Correa's government. It provides detailed backgrounds on each individual, including their qualifications, past roles, and any notable achievements or controversies. The appointments reflect a continuity of personnel with experience in public administration and various governmental sectors.

Luis Córdova discusses the implications of a new law that reforms nine security-related laws in Ecuador, warning of increased state control and surveillance. The law, which was approved by the National Assembly, has been criticized for enabling excessive government power and potential misuse of data by foreign entities like the United States. The text highlights concerns about the role of the military and police in strategic sectors, the potential for paramilitary activities, and the erosion of civil liberties. The influence of foreign governments, particularly the United States and Israel, is also scrutinized, with specific mention of surveillance technologies like Pegasus. The article underscores the need for transparency and judicial oversight to prevent abuses of power.

The article criticizes the President of Ecuador for prioritizing his reputation over the safety and well-being of citizens. It highlights the daily violence and insecurity faced by the public, including kidnappings, extortion, and murders, contrasting it with the President's focus on defending his family's honor. The piece underscores the government's failure to ensure public safety and the President's perceived detachment from the harsh realities faced by ordinary citizens.

Gonzalo Muñoz criticizes the National Assembly of Ecuador for procedural errors in presenting a political trial against the President, arguing that the accusations lack logical connection and are outrageous. The Assembly confused articles of the Constitution in their submission, which Muñoz sees as undermining the seriousness of the process. He explains that the accusations must be specific and fall within the causes established by the Constitution. Muñoz believes that the Constitutional Court should thoroughly analyze the connection between the accusations and the political offenses to find serious flaws in the accusation. He also discusses the potential consequences of the Court's decision and the President's ability to dissolve the Assembly, refuting claims that the political trial would prevent this.

Pipo Laso discusses his experiences and challenges as Secretary of Communication in Ecuador, highlighting issues with strategic communication, decision-making, and political management within the government. He criticizes the lack of a cohesive political project and the government's insensitivity to public needs. Laso emphasizes the importance of having a strategic communication plan and the need for political leaders to be more connected with the public's concerns. He also reflects on the internal dynamics and power struggles within the government, advocating for a more inclusive and strategic approach to governance.

Henry Cucalón, the Minister of Government, discusses the challenges faced by the Ecuadorian government, including accusations against the media outlet La Posta and its journalist Andersson Boscán, alleged links to narcotrafficking, and the political instability threatening President Guillermo Lasso's administration. Cucalón defends the government's stance on freedom of expression while acknowledging the need for dialogue with political forces and addressing security concerns. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining democratic principles and transparency, despite criticisms and potential destabilization efforts from opposition groups.

On February 9, Enrique Pita of the Consejo Nacional Electoral (CNE) reported the discovery of a parallel computing center in a warehouse at the CNE's Guayas headquarters in Guayaquil, which allegedly printed unauthorized recount forms to influence the referendum results. Diana Atamaint, CNE president, confirmed a complaint was filed with the Fiscalía. The recount process in Guayas was halted, and the CNE's Guayas director, John Gamboa, denied the allegations. The Partido Social Cristiano demanded an explanation, while Leonidas Iza of CONAIE suggested the complaint might be a distraction. The Revolución Ciudadana reported that their computing center was interfered with, and their computers were seized by the Fiscalía. Atamaint announced Gamboa's removal and the resumption of the scrutiny process.

Andrés Paéz, a candidate for the mayorship of Quito supported by the Partido Sociedad Patriótica and Democracia Sí, discussed his proposals for sexual diversity and education in municipal schools. He acknowledged political agreements with leaders Gustavo Larrea and Lucio Gutiérrez, denied seeking to incorporate Jéssica Jaramillo into his campaign, and emphasized his stance on public safety, including life imprisonment for certain crimes. Paéz plans to create shelters for women victims of violence and work with existing foundations. He also commented on his connections with former mayor and candidate Jorge Yunda, his relationship with candidate Pedro Freile, and how he would interact with President Guillermo Lasso regarding new proposals in Quito.

Babahoyo faces significant challenges with crime, corruption, and gender violence as it approaches the 2023 elections. The city has seen 32 homicides, over 4,000 robberies, and 509 drug trafficking complaints from May 2019 to May 2022. There have also been cases of corruption, including cohecho and peculado. Gender violence remains a serious issue, with 4 femicides and numerous cases of physical, psychological, and sexual violence reported. The school dropout rate is higher than in some other cities, and there are ongoing concerns about water quality and security. Local journalist Guido Moreno highlights the need for improved water quality and security, noting that while the outgoing mayor Carlos German has focused on social and preventive health measures, significant infrastructure projects are lacking.

Álvaro Román, a lawyer with over 30 years of experience in criminal and constitutional law, faced a dispute over the presidency of Ecuador's Consejo de la Judicatura following María del Carmen Maldonado's resignation. Despite being her alternate, the CPCCS initially decided he could not assume the presidency. However, after the Corte Constitucional's ruling on September 22, 2022, and the subsequent removal of the CPCCS members for non-compliance, Román was positioned to become president. His academic background includes a Doctorate in Jurisprudence and a Master's in Constitutional Law from Universidad Central, as well as teaching roles at several universities.

Patricio Alarcón, a candidate for the mayor of Quito, discussed his approach to social protest, stating he would block strategic sites harboring criminals and engage with the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Quito and the government to prevent protesters from finding refuge. He criticized metropolitan agents for corruption and emphasized the need to clean up institutions. Despite data showing low criminal involvement among Venezuelan migrants, Alarcón highlighted their assaults as a major concern for Quito residents, advocating for the deportation of criminal migrants and acceptance of those who work. He also touched on his relationship with council members, the need to remove sex work and informal trade from the historic center, reactivating childcare centers, and his views on mobility. Alarcón mentioned his election opponents and the lack of an alliance within his political tendency.

The article details the ongoing investigation into the Encuentro case, a corruption scandal involving high-ranking officials in Ecuador's public enterprises. Key figures include Hernán Luque, former president of EMCO, and Danilo Carrera, President Guillermo Lasso's brother-in-law. The government initially avoided direct comments but later took steps to locate and investigate the implicated individuals. The scandal has led to significant political and legal repercussions, including defamation lawsuits and international cooperation for further investigation.

Hernán Luque, a former high-ranking official in Ecuador, is implicated in a significant corruption scandal involving state-owned enterprises. The scandal, revealed through leaked audios, suggests Luque's involvement in irregular appointments and financial misconduct. The case, known as 'Encuentro,' also implicates other notable figures, including Danilo Carrera, the brother-in-law of President Guillermo Lasso. Despite Luque's arrest in Argentina and ongoing legal proceedings, the full extent of the corruption network and its impact on public enterprises remains under investigation.

Omar Cevallos, a candidate for the mayor of Quito, discusses his political journey from being a councilor with the support of Concertación to running with Centro Democrático. He addresses the failure to unify center-right candidates and proposes moving the President's office out of the Palacio de Carondelet to protect the historic center from protests. Cevallos also emphasizes the need for infrastructure diagnostics, pest control, and managing informal commerce, sex workers, and the LGBTIQ community.

Pedro Freile, running for mayor of Quito, anticipates challenging the election results if he loses, citing potential fraud. Previously supported by the controversial Amigo movement, he is now backed by the Socialist Party and Suma. Freile plans to continue projects from former mayors and emphasizes practical governance. He also discusses the Vindobona project, public-private partnerships, risk management, mental health proposals, and his prospective team.

Aquiles Álvarez and Andrés Arauz, both supported by correísmo, engaged in a public dispute on Twitter following Álvarez's critical comments about Arauz in an interview. The controversy escalated with Arauz's promise to respond after the upcoming elections and a disputed tweet allegedly from Álvarez. Rafael Correa defended Álvarez, claiming a smear campaign against him. Álvarez is running for mayor of Guayaquil against Cynthia Viteri, the incumbent supported by the Partido Social Cristiano.

Luz Elena Coloma, a candidate for mayor of Quito with the support of the Alianza Va por Ti coalition, which includes CREO, Construye, Reto, and Ahora, discussed her campaign, political alliances, and gender parity in municipal institutions. She mentioned past efforts to ensure parity and the current state of the Municipality of Quito. Coloma also addressed the financing of her campaign and her potential relationship with the President of the Republic.

Natasha Rojas, a long-time member of Unidad Popular, is running for mayor of Quito. With a history of political involvement since her high school days and as the first female president of the Federación de Estudiantes Universitarios del Ecuador, Rojas aims to govern the city. During an interview, she shared her experiences of engaging with local communities and demonstrated patience and composure despite technical difficulties. Her responses reflected her political journey and alignment with her party's ideology.

An Ipsos survey reveals Ecuadorian perceptions of the questions to be voted on in the February 2023 elections. It shows that 55% are aware of the consultation, with 47% believing it will benefit the country. Key issues include extradition for transnational organized crime, autonomy for the Prosecutor's Office, reducing assembly members, and political movement regulations. The survey also indicates strong support for reforming the CPCCS's authority and designating its members, incorporating a water protection subsystem into the National Protected Areas System, and compensating indigenous communities for environmental services. President Guillermo Lasso's management is disapproved by 64% of respondents.

The article highlights the severe institutional crisis in Ecuador, focusing on the Council of Citizen Participation and Social Control (CPCCS). It criticizes the CPCCS for being a political tool rather than a genuine body for citizen participation, detailing the political maneuvering and corruption that have plagued the institution. The article discusses the controversial appointments and removals of various officials, the political backing of CPCCS members, and the overall loss of legitimacy in key state institutions. It underscores the chaotic state of the CPCCS and its impact on the country's governance.

Patricio Alarcón, a candidate for the mayoralty of Quito, studied at Babson College and holds a Master's degree from Universidad Tecnológica Equinoccial. Backed by the Partido Social Cristiano, Alarcón has become a critic of President Guillermo Lasso's government, despite initially supporting his candidacy. Alarcón has also voiced strong opinions against indigenous protests and proposed stringent measures for controlling insecurity in Quito, including collaboration between municipal agents and military forces for deporting undocumented migrants.

María Belén Bernal was found dead ten days after her disappearance, buried near the School of Police in Quito. The article reconstructs her last hours based on judicial documents and testimonies. It details the inconsistencies in the accounts of Germán Cáceres, her husband and main suspect, and the involvement of cadet Joselyn Sánchez. The investigation reveals administrative irregularities and potential cover-ups within the police institution. Bernal's death is being investigated as a femicide, and Cáceres remains at large, with Interpol issuing a red notice for his capture. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting issues of femicide and institutional accountability in Ecuador.

The article criticizes the Ecuadorian government, particularly President Guillermo Lasso, Interior Minister Juan Zapata, and Secretary of Communication Andrés Seminario, for their lack of appropriate response to the violence in Guayas and Esmeraldas. It highlights the government's preoccupation with media portrayal and personal grievances over addressing the critical issue of public safety. The article underscores the contrast between the festive reception of the FIFA World Cup trophy and the grim reality of violence in the country, questioning the government's priorities during a crisis.

Juan Carlos Larrea, a lawyer from Guayaquil, has been appointed as the new Attorney General after a selection process by the CPCCS. Larrea, who graduated with honors from the Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil, has an extensive career in corporate, commercial, tax, and administrative law. He was the only candidate not to receive any impugnations, unlike his competitors Juan Enmanuel Izquierdo Intriago and Yolanda Narcisa de Jesús Salgado Guerrón, who faced controversies. Larrea's appointment followed a thorough review and the rejection of the impugnations against the other candidates.

Roberto Castillo discusses the importance of including ID numbers in the Ecuadorian census to eliminate duplicate entries, correct information, and integrate existing data for public policy. He addresses concerns about data privacy and the potential misuse of sensitive information, emphasizing the technological and legal safeguards in place. Castillo reassures that while providing an ID number is not mandatory, it significantly enhances the accuracy and utility of the census data.

Michael Fitzpatrick, the U.S. ambassador, discussed the revocation of over 300 visas for Ecuadorians linked to corruption and other crimes. The U.S. Embassy enforces strict adherence to U.S. laws and norms, which includes denying visas to those who fall outside acceptable conduct. The revocations are part of efforts to support Ecuador and other countries in combating corruption, drug trafficking, and violence. Fitzpatrick highlighted the cooperation with Ecuadorian institutions in various areas, including justice, police, and fiscal policy, and mentioned international investigations and information exchange agreements. The ambassador emphasized the ongoing collaboration with the Ecuadorian government and society to strengthen public institutions and improve security and transparency.

Eighteen days of protests and a national strike in Ecuador have had significant impacts on the country. The article discusses the social and political ramifications, including the response from the government led by Guillermo Lasso. The protests were driven by various grievances, reflecting broader discontent within the population.

During the 18-day national strike in Ecuador, Fundamedios recorded at least 152 attacks on journalists, including physical assaults, detentions, and equipment damage. The article highlights six lessons about the role of the press in a democracy, emphasizing that media should not be a mere echo of public opinion, journalism is not activism, and self-criticism should not be enforced through violence. It also stresses that media can cover events regardless of public opinion, the truth is not always what people want to hear, and transparency in media funding is crucial. The article criticizes the lack of protection for journalists and the ineffective mechanisms in place to ensure their safety.

Ecuador has been experiencing protests for 10 days, led by Leonidas Iza, president of the Confederación de Nacionalidades Indígenas del Ecuador (CONAIE), with demands including freezing fuel prices and addressing indigenous communities' grievances. President Guillermo Lasso agreed to dialogue after civil society calls, but tensions escalated with police actions against protesters. The violence has resulted in at least two deaths, and both the government and protest leaders are urged to negotiate to prevent further violence. Indigenous populations have historically been marginalized, and the current protests reflect deep societal fractures and the need for mutual concessions in a democratic framework.

Patricio Carrillo, Ecuador's Minister of Interior, addresses issues of police corruption, the impact of organized crime, and the challenges faced by the police force. He discusses the systematic theft of police weapons, the need for better internal controls, and the impact of COVID-19 on police operations. Carrillo emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive security plan, increased police personnel, and technological advancements to combat crime. He also highlights the need for legislative support and better coordination among security agencies to address the rising violence and organized crime in Ecuador.

Ecuadorian President Lasso partially vetoed a law regarding abortion in cases of rape, reducing the timeframe for termination from 18 to 12 weeks for minors and rural women, and proposing the law be named to reflect regulation rather than guaranteeing abortion. He insists on respecting the Constitutional Court's ruling despite personal disagreement. Lita Martínez of Cepam Guayaquil criticized the veto for ignoring the realities faced by rape victims. The veto also requires a report, sworn statement, or medical exam as a prerequisite for abortion, which contradicts the Court's ruling that suggested flexibility in requirements. Constitutional lawyer Mauricio Maldonado argues that the right to abortion in cases of rape is legally sound and that the President's objections are more symbolic than substantive.

Fernando Balda, an Ecuadorian politician known for his opposition to former president Rafael Correa, has called for a purge of 'Correístas' from the government, labeling them as infiltrators and corrupt. This call, which includes a form for accusations, has been criticized for its disregard for legality and human rights. The government of President Guillermo Lasso has disavowed Balda's actions, emphasizing a commitment to political diversity and non-persecution. Balda's actions are likened to those of Joseph MacCarthy, and the article condemns such divisive and potentially illegal tactics, warning of the dangers they pose to democracy.

The article criticizes Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso for his delayed and perceived indifferent response to a recent prison massacre that resulted in numerous deaths. It highlights the contrast between the government's silence and the ongoing violence, and underscores the need for immediate and empathetic leadership. The piece also mentions international support offered to Ecuador and calls for the president to prioritize public safety and human rights.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the wedding of Juan Borrero, son of Ecuador's Vice President, and the actions of the wedding organizer, Carolina Muzo. Muzo's requests to remove homeless people and clean public spaces for aesthetic reasons sparked public outrage. The article criticizes the perceived indifference and lack of response from government officials, including Vice President Alfredo Borrero, and highlights the broader social and political implications of the incident.