Amnesty International has urged the candidates for Ecuador’s presidency to prioritise human rights in their policies ahead of the decisive run-off election scheduled for April 13, 2025. This call comes amid increasing anxiety over human rights practices in the country, which have been highlighted by numerous international organisations in recent years.
The recent presidential election culminated in a tie between current President Daniel Noboa, who stepped into power in November 2023, and rival Luisa González. Noboa’s term has been marred by significant rule of law and human rights issues, including a controversial new state of emergency declared in May 2024, despite a prior ruling by the Constitutional Court deeming the earlier one unconstitutional.
Throughout 2024, credible allegations against Noboa’s administration have surfaced, suggesting mass arrests, extrajudicial executions, systematic torture, and enforced disappearances. In response to the government’s claims of an “internal armed conflict,” Human Rights Watch warned that such rhetoric could legitimise severe human rights abuses.
A shocking incident in December 2024 involved the disappearance of four boys aged between 11 and 15 at the hands of military forces, prompting the Human Rights Commission to petition the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances. However, the government has dismissed these serious allegations.
Amnesty International’s letter highlights these human rights violations, questioning the candidates on their plans to ensure compliance with human rights standards. It specifically addresses the need for policy changes to combat forced disappearances and torture, positing important questions such as, “What will you do to guarantee that your security policies respect human rights?” The anticipated presidential debate on March 23 will allow the candidates to respond to these pressing concerns before the tie-breaking vote.
Amnesty International has implored Ecuador’s presidential contenders to confront urgent human rights issues ahead of the April 2025 run-off election, citing alarming trends during President Noboa’s administration. The call follows troubling incidents including mass arrests and a military-associated forced disappearance. Candidates are urged to clarify their stances on human rights protection in their future policies.
In conclusion, Amnesty International’s call to Ecuador’s presidential candidates emphasizes the critical necessity of addressing human rights abuses as part of their campaign. As the nation prepares for a decisive election, the candidates must articulate clear policies on how they will handle alarming allegations of human rights violations, ensuring that future government actions respect and protect the rights of all citizens.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
