In Quito, Luisa González has entered a fierce political battle, aiming to restore peace in Ecuador and challenge the leadership of Daniel Noboa. Results from the recent elections indicate that both candidates are heading towards a runoff scheduled for April 13.
González, representing the left-wing party Revolución Ciudadana, is closely associated with former President Rafael Correa, who held power for a decade. This year, González, who is 47 years old, found herself unable to surpass Noboa in the electoral race.
Despite her relative political inexperience, González is determined to make her mark. She has previously held positions such as Minister of Labor and served as a member of the National Assembly, which was dissolved midway through 2023 by former President Guillermo Lasso. She has also worked in various roles within public institutions, including the Ecuadorian consulate in Madrid.
Taking leadership of the Revolución Ciudadana in 2024, González has positioned herself as a strong voice for change.
### A Woman with Determination
González describes herself as a strong-willed individual and is a mother of two. Reflecting on her childhood, she considers herself a curious “little girl” who strived to break free from a predetermined rural life.
Her educational background includes a law degree from the International University of Ecuador, along with postgraduate studies in High Management and International Economics and Development.
### “Reviving the Nation”
Ecuador, with a population nearing 18 million, is currently experiencing political polarization between those who long for Correa’s era and those wary of a regression to that time.
Throughout her campaign, González has focused on moving beyond past divisions and addressing the pressing issues facing Ecuador. She advocates for “reviving the nation” and combating what she calls “criminal neoliberalism” and the “angry right,” represented by Noboa. Her promises include ensuring peace and security, stable jobs, and access to free health care and education, which she believes require a redefined role for the state.
If elected, she would become Ecuador’s second female president, following Rosalía Arteaga in the 1990s. Her running mate, Diego Borja, an economist who previously distanced himself from the party, has made a surprising return to the political landscape in this election.
