QUITO, Ecuador — In a surprising turn of events, Daniel Noboa captured the presidency in Ecuador during a snap election held in 2023, succeeding after a short time as a lawmaker. Noboa, a young businessman and conservative, won against his opponent, who was backed by the country’s previous powerful president. His decisive victory in the recent election promises him another four-year term.
The 37-year-old Noboa, who comes from a family with deep roots in the banana trade, is known for his tough approach to crime, a strategy that has resonated with many voters who are desperate for safety and stability in their lives. Speaking to his supporters, Noboa expressed his gratitude, stating, “A huge hug to all Ecuadorians who always believed in this young president. Ecuador wants to be different… it wants to move forward.”
Brief Political Journey
Noboa’s journey into politics began in 2021 when he won a seat in the National Assembly, where he served as chairman of the Economic Development Commission. Before entering politics, he started an event planning company at a young age and joined his family’s successful corporate business.
His recent success in the runoff against leftist lawyer Luisa González comes after a challenging election triggered by the previous president’s decision to dissolve the National Assembly. In the latest election, Noboa received 55.8% of the votes while González trailed at 44%. Although she has claimed that the election was marred by fraud and is seeking a recount, the results suggest strong support for Noboa’s leadership.
Under Noboa’s administration, the homicide rate has seen a decrease, moving from 46.18 per 100,000 people in 2023 to 38.76 in 2024, although it is still significantly higher than previous years. His approach to tackling violence has been marked by firm measures, including a declaration of a state of internal armed conflict aimed at controlling organized crime.
Engaging with International Allies
During his term, Noboa has also worked to strengthen ties with the United States, particularly under the Trump administration. According to experts, many Ecuadorians have family in the U.S. and see a potential leftist leadership as a threat to their loved ones. A close relationship with the Trump administration was viewed favorably by many voters who worried about immigration issues.
Controversial Tactics
While Noboa’s crime-fighting methods have gained a following, they also raise eyebrows. His administration has faced criticism for its handling of organized crime, leading to controversial decisions, such as mobilizing the military in prisons and authorizing a police raid on a foreign embassy to capture a fugitive.
Furthermore, during his campaign, Noboa faced challenges regarding governance, including tensions with his vice president. After their disagreements, Noboa reassigned her to a diplomatic role in Israel, distancing her from his administration. This situation has led to claims by the vice president of being placed in a metaphorical ‘exile’ from Ecuadorian politics.
