Ecuadorian voters are heading to the polls today to participate in a crucial referendum addressing the potential return of foreign military bases to the country and the drafting of a new constitution. The vote takes place amidst a climate of heightened tension as President Daniel Noboa seeks to implement unprecedented policies aimed at combating organized crime.
The Ecuadorian judiciary has, however, challenged several of Noboa’s measures, deeming them violations of fundamental rights principles. Approximately 14 million Ecuadorians are being asked to answer “yes” or “no” to four key questions in this mandatory referendum.
Beyond the highly debated issue of allowing foreign military presence, which has been prohibited since 2008, voters are also considering whether to initiate the process of drafting a new constitution. Additional proposals include ending government funding for political parties and reducing the number of members in the National Assembly.
Cedatos, a prominent polling firm, projects that over 61% of voters will approve the return of foreign military bases. This comes as Ecuador grapples with a significant security crisis, marked by a homicide rate of 39 per 100,000 inhabitants, according to InSight Crime. This is the highest rate in Latin America.
President Daniel Noboa is also hoping that citizens will support the creation of a new constitution, arguing that the current charter is too lenient in its approach to lawbreakers. The outcome of this referendum could significantly reshape Ecuador’s political landscape and security strategy. The results are expected to be announced later this evening.
