Prensa Latina noted in the morning an increase in the presence of fences and uniformed personnel that prevent access to the Plaza Grande, although supporters of Noboa are in that public space located in front of the headquarters of the Executive.
This Sunday officially began the electoral campaign in this South American nation towards the elections of February 9, in which Noboa, of the National Democratic Action (ADN) movement, is one of the 16 candidates to head the Executive for the period 2025-2029. However, so far, the ruler has not said whether he will request leave, as provided by law, to participate in proselytizing activities.
The Executive alleges that the leave is not mandatory for the ruler because he is not opting for re-election, since he came to power to complete the mandate of former President Guillermo Lasso, who activated the cross death in 2023.
The National Police joined a statement by the Armed Forces to comply only with Noboa’s provisions, after the vice president, Verónica Abad, announced that she would assume power this Sunday when the president requested leave for the campaign.
Abad was appointed as a temporary advisor in Türkiye, where she was due to go before December 27, but since she did not travel and took vacations, the Executive considered that she incurred in “temporary absence” and appointed the Secretary of Planning, Sariha Moya, as vice president in charge.
In response to the replacement, Abad filed a non-compliance action with the Constitutional Court, although there has been no response to his claim.
Then, this Saturday, Noboa appointed Cynthia Gellibert as temporary vice president, replacing Moya, who left office due to health problems.
Former President Rafael Correa warned of the possibility of a coup d’état if the current ruler decides not to request leave to participate in proselytizing activities, as established by electoral regulations.
In turn, Ecuadorian jurists warn that if Noboa does not take the mandatory leave, he could face impeachment and possible dismissal, since he would be violating article 93 of the Code of Democracy.
ef/oda/avr
