Escalating violence in Ecuador has forced 45 of its mayors to seek police protection, according to Patricio Maldonado, the president of the Association of Ecuadorian Municipalities (AME). Since 2023, a staggering number of 22 local officials, inclusive of two mayors, have been victims of violent incidents which has raised deep worry among the populace. One of the recent victims was Mayor Brigitte Garcia.
The surge in violence has strikingly impacted Ecuadorian society across different socio-economic strata. Maldonado suggested that criminal organizations have primarily targeted mayors and municipal officials, leading to a climate of fear in the general populace. Consequently, President Daniel Noboa proclaimed a state of emergency in January, a measure which was subsequently extended in March.
Responding to the distress call, the Ecuadorian government has provided protection to as many as 17 mayors as reported by Homero Castanier, executive director of the AME. Castanier highlighted the diversity in security arrangements amongst the mayors including a combination of public and private security. However, he maintained strict confidentiality regarding the identities of those currently under protection. He further stressed upon the need for a holistic risk analysis for all 221 mayors in the country thereby urging the national government to step in.
Presently, the focus is ostensibly on the democratic stability of Ecuador which Castanier believes is at risk. The threats and violence aimed at the country’s elected officials have indeed put a dent in the democratic fabric of society, further building deterrent amongst prospective political candidates. At a time when service towards citizen welfare should underline political engagements, there is an emerging trend of reluctance towards political candidacy due to safety concerns.
Nevertheless, Maldonado reaffirmed his commitment towards citizens’ rights and welfare while the AME, given the trust accorded to them by the citizens, laid emphasis on the importance of addressing the safety and security concerns of municipal officials and their communities. The present scenario demands a concerted and resolute response from the authorities in Ecuador.
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