Gang Violence is Top Issue for Voters as Polls Open in Ecuador

President Noboa hopes for first round win over fifteen rivals
Socialist challenger may force Noboa into an April runoff

Members of the military stand guard near the polling station where President Daniel Noboa voted during the general elections in Olon, Ecuador, on Feb. 9. — Members of the military stand guard near the polling station where President Daniel Noboa voted during the general elections in Olon, Ecuador, on Feb. 9.
Photographer: Vicente Gaibor/Bloomberg

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By Stephan Kueffner

February 9, 2025 at 7:00 AM EST

Updated on

February 9, 2025 at 5:09 PM EST

Ecuador’s 37-year-old leader Daniel Noboa is seeking reelection on Sunday with out-of-control gang violence the top issue for voters.

He’s facing socialist challenger Luisa González and fifteen other candidates. Polls were open from 7 a.m to 5 p.m. local time, and the ballot count is now underway.