The recent referendum in Ecuador saw more than half of voters support President Noboa’s proposed tough new security measures to combat rising gang-related crime in the country. The measures included expanding military and police powers, tightening gun control, imposing harsher penalties for terrorism, easing obstacles to extradition, and lengthening prison sentences for drug traffickers. Voters expressed extreme concern over the security situation and were eager for the government to take action, even potentially reforming the constitution.
The increase in violence in Ecuador has been attributed to gangs with links to transnational cartels using the country’s ports to traffic drugs. The country has seen a spate of political killings, including the assassination of a presidential candidate in August. The referendum results will shape the government’s approach to tackling violence and organized crime. President Noboa had declared a state of internal armed conflict in January due to escalating violence, prompting the military’s deployment to regain control of the prison system, which had become a breeding ground for gang activity.
Despite these efforts, the violence has continued, with Noboa suggesting that narcoterrorism and its allies are seeking to create chaos in the country. The recent killings of two mayors and a prison director underscore the ongoing security challenges faced by Ecuador. The referendum results, which saw overwhelming support for the security measures proposed by Noboa, reflect the citizens’ desire for stronger action against crime and a return to peace for Ecuadorean families. The rejection of proposals related to labor regulations indicates that the focus of the referendum was primarily on addressing crime and violence.
The majority of the Ecuadorian population was eligible to participate in the referendum, with the voting process lasting 10 hours. The country not only grapples with crime and violence but also corruption, electricity shortages, and diplomatic issues. Ecuador’s murder rate has soared in recent years, reaching a record high in 2022, emphasizing the urgent need for effective security measures and law enforcement efforts. President Noboa has pledged to use the referendum results as a guide for the country’s future policies in combating violence and organized crime, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the security challenges facing Ecuador.
