Ecuador’s Noboa Sworn In: A New Era of Crime Fighting and Investment

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa was inaugurated with promises of vigorous action against organized crime, enhanced trade relationships, and significant energy reforms. His victory is clouded by opposition claims of electoral fraud, yet he remains focused on correcting economic issues and public safety challenges. Noboa aims to diversify energy sources while investing in the country’s youth and promoting investment opportunities.

In a landmark ceremony held on May 24, Ecuador’s newly elected President Daniel Noboa and Vice President Maria Jose Pinto took their oaths of office for the 2025-2029 term. Noboa, confidently proclaiming continuity in his approach, pledged a relentless “war” against organized crime while also focusing on trade openness, investment, and a transformational shift in the energy sector. His victory over opposition candidate Luisa González is still clouded by allegations of fraud from González, although she has not provided substantial evidence to support her claims.

Noboa did not shy away from criticizing previous administrations, including his opponents. Accusing them of wasting the country’s potential through corruption and targeting political adversaries, he asserted, “This country has had governments that persecuted people, and today it has a president and a vice president who were persecuted and who are now authorities.”

Continuing his focus on crime, Noboa reiterated his commitment to tackling criminal gangs, a priority he began addressing during his first term in January 2024. “I know my duty is not to distance myself from a conflict because it has never been resolved before,” he stated. This ongoing battle reflects a broader initiative to improve safety and stability in a country plagued by rising violence.

Furthermore, Noboa publicly backed the military and police in their efforts against crime. He introduced a controversial bill allowing him to grant early pardons to officers amidst scrutiny over claims of human rights violations related to the government’s tactics in this conflict. His administration, he promised, would fight against entrenched corruption from influential oligarchies, stating he would defraud those who have historically exploited state resources at the detriment to society’s welfare.

Noboa, who comes from one of Ecuador’s wealthiest families, is adamant about enforcing transparency in government operations as his administration moves forward. He highlighted the importance of expanding trade to boost exports and attract foreign investment, particularly after the economy contracted by 2% in 2024. He pledged to create jobs targeting the youth, emphasizing the need for programs that provide loans and internships to discourage emigration.

Addressing the pressing issues within the energy sector, Noboa announced plans to introduce a Nuclear Energy Law aimed at diversifying energy sources. This move responds to the recent crises resulting in significant electricity rationing due to drought-induced hydroelectric failures. Additionally, he called for boosting natural gas production from the Gulf of Guayaquil with diverse public, private, and foreign investments.

In an impressive display of international support, 74 countries were represented at Noboa’s inauguration, including Colombia’s Gustavo Petro and Peru’s Dina Boluarte. Noboa framed this as a benchmark of trust in Ecuador’s potential for investment and security under transparent regulations. His presidency, thus, promises a mix of aggressive crime fighting, economic strategies, and a keen eye on energy diversification to foster a brighter future for Ecuador.

In sum, President Daniel Noboa’s inauguration marks a critical juncture for Ecuador. His commitment to a strong stance on crime, openness to trade, and energy sector reform underlines the breadth of challenges he is prepared to tackle. Amidst a backdrop of distrust from political opposition and a pressing economic climate, Noboa’s strategies aim at reviving national stability, fostering youth engagement, and attracting foreign investors while addressing accusations of past corruption.

Original Source: efe.com