Ecuador’s election authorities have triumphantly declared President Daniel Noboa the winner of Sunday’s decisive runoff vote. In a classic showdown of values, Noboa faced far-left opposition candidate Luisa González, the protégé of former socialist leader Rafael Correa. Despite the clear verdict, González is refusing to concede.
With a substantial 91% of votes counted, President Noboa boasts a commanding lead, securing 56% compared to González’s 44%. Diana Atamaint, head of the electoral council, has confirmed an “irreversible trend” that cements Noboa’s victory.
However, González, addressing supporters in Quito, challenges the official count, citing discrepancies with internal polling.
“We will ask for a recount and for the ballot boxes to be reopened,” González declared.
La Socialista Luisa Gonzalez dice que va a pedir reconteo de votos porque “hubo fraude” en Ecuador JAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJJAAJAJAJA
— Javierhalamadrid (@Javierito321)
April 14, 2025
Meanwhile, Correa took to the X platform to question the results, terming them “impossible” as González’s vote tally remained unchanged from the first round.
“We all know these results are impossible,” he wrote. “We got the same 44 percent as in the first round.”
Correa further accused, “These criminals could have concealed it a bit better.”
Todos saben que estos resultados son imposibles. Sacamos el mismo 44% de la primera vuelta. Estos mafiosos hubiesen podido disimular un poquito más. #NosGobiernanDelincuentes
— Rafael Correa (@MashiRafael)
April 14, 2025
In a nation of 18 million, Ecuador has experienced shifts between socialist regimes under Correa and more market-friendly administrations. During her campaign, González promised to increase public spending and revive Correa-era social programs, while seeking closer ties with socialist regimes in Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela.
The pressing issue of national security, driven by a surge in gang violence and drug trafficking, played a pivotal role in Noboa’s campaign. Amidst this, Ecuador remains one of the few Latin American countries to officially use the U.S. dollar, a practice previously opposed by left-wing governments.
At just 35 years old, Noboa is among the youngest leaders globally. Born in Miami, he proudly holds U.S. citizenship, making his leadership a symbol of youthful patriotism and strength for Ecuador’s future.
