Ecuador’s Indigenous Groups Shape Election Dynamics with Proposals for Candidates

Ecuador’s CONAIE has declined to back President Daniel Noboa in the April runoff, instead requesting responses from candidate Luisa Gonzalez concerning key proposals. Indigenous votes appear divided, with some supporting Noboa despite criticisms of his policies. Proposed changes include halting privatization, reducing taxes, and addressing crime policy, while others seek engagement with Noboa regarding Amazonian issues.

In a significant political move, the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) and allied leftist organizations have declared their non-support for incumbent President Daniel Noboa in the upcoming April runoff election. They have formally requested the leftist candidate, Luisa Gonzalez, to address a set of proposals that highlight pressing issues within the country.

The Indigenous electorate appears fragmented, with mixed support for Noboa, whose narrow victory over Gonzalez in the first round was by less than 1%. Given that CONAIE leader Leonidas Iza received 5.25% of the vote, his influence could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the second round.

CONAIE has raised concerns regarding Noboa’s policies, particularly in security and economic management, yet some Indigenous and social groups may still favor him for the completion of his predecessor’s term. They have urged Gonzalez to consider proposals aimed at halting privatizations and large-scale mining initiatives, as well as to counter Noboa’s aggressive approaches against crime gangs.

Additional demands include a reduction of the sales tax back to 12%, following Noboa’s increase to 15% to finance security efforts, and a reevaluation of Ecuador’s arrangement with the International Monetary Fund. Meanwhile, the CONFENIAE—an Indigenous confederation from Ecuador’s Amazon region—has expressed endorsement for Noboa but is seeking dialogue concerning Amazon-related policies. The party of former candidate Andrea Gonzalez, who secured fourth place in the February election, has also opted to support Noboa.

The Ecuadorian political landscape is currently marked by a division among Indigenous groups regarding support for presidential candidates. While CONAIE and allied organizations are prioritizing dialogue with Luisa Gonzalez on critical proposals, other factions are aligning with Daniel Noboa, highlighting a complex interplay of political ideologies and electoral strategies. The outcomes in the April runoff are poised to significantly impact policy direction, especially concerning Indigenous rights and economic management.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my