Ecuadorian Judge Reinstates Vice President Abad, Complicating Noboa’s Campaign Plans

A judge has overturned Vice President Veronica Abad’s suspension, complicating President Daniel Noboa’s campaign plans. The judge ordered a public apology from the labor ministry, reinforcing Abad’s position to assume the presidency during Noboa’s potential absence for campaigning ahead of the February 9 election.

A judge in Ecuador has annulled the temporary suspension of Vice President Veronica Abad, a decision that presents complications for President Daniel Noboa’s plans to campaign for re-election. The ruling comes after Noboa and Abad, who were elected together last year, experienced significant tension, particularly following Noboa’s decision to assign Abad diplomatic duties in Israel during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The judge mandated that the labor ministry tender a public apology to Abad, reinforcing her claim to remain in office and indicating that she would assume the presidency should Noboa take leave for campaigning.

The political climate in Ecuador remains tumultuous as Vice President Veronica Abad faced suspension in November due to allegations of serious misconduct linked to her failure to comply with an order from the foreign ministry. This suspension was perceived as strategic in light of the upcoming presidential election scheduled for February 9, 2024, which creates potential implications for the balance of power between the president and vice president should Noboa’s absence position Abad in a controlling role.

The overturning of Vice President Veronica Abad’s suspension marks a pivotal moment in Ecuador’s political landscape. The judge’s ruling not only reinstates Abad’s official duties but also complicates President Noboa’s ability to campaign, should he choose to do so, while maintaining a power balance in the government. As the election approaches, the implications of this legal decision will undoubtedly continue to unfold, affecting the existing political dynamics.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv