Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was tragically assassinated on Wednesday evening during a political rally in the capital city of Quito. The killing, which occurred just days before the upcoming election, has raised concerns over escalating drug-related violence in the country. Villavicencio, a former journalist and vocal critic of government corruption and organized crime, was shot outside a high school in Quito after addressing his young supporters. Eyewitness Carlos Figueroa, who worked for Villavicencio's campaign, described the horrifying scene, stating, "When he stepped outside the door, he was met with gunfire... they were shots to the head." The 59-year-old candidate had been polling in the middle of the eight-person race and was known for his strong stance on crime and state corruption.
This shocking assassination marks the first time a presidential candidate has been killed in Ecuador and comes less than a month after the mayor of Manta was also shot to death during a public appearance. Ecuador, once considered a relatively safe nation, has experienced a significant increase in narco-trafficking and related violence in recent years. Foreign drug mafias have joined forces with local prison and street gangs, resulting in record-high homicide rates and horrific acts of violence, such as car bombings, beheadings, and even children being targeted outside their schools.
President Guillermo Lasso expressed his outrage and shock over Villavicencio's assassination, blaming organized crime for the heinous act. In a post on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Lasso wrote, "Outraged and shocked by the assassination... My solidarity and condolences to his wife and daughters." The national prosecutor's office announced on the same platform that a suspect had been apprehended, but died shortly afterward during crossfire with security forces. Nine other individuals, including two police officers and a candidate for a National Assembly seat, were also injured in the melee.
The killing of Villavicencio has further compounded the economic, social, and political upheaval already plaguing Ecuador. The country experienced significant progress between 2005 and 2015, thanks to an oil boom that funded investments in education, healthcare, and social programs. However, the rise of the narco-trafficking industry has reversed these advancements, with drug cartels exerting control and instilling fear through acts of violence. Additionally, President Lasso's decision to dissolve the opposition-led National Assembly earlier this year has added to the complex situation, leading to the upcoming elections for president and legislative representatives.
Fernando Villavicencio, who had a diverse background as a journalist, activist, and legislator, gained prominence as a vocal opponent of the leftist movement led by former President Rafael Correa. He successfully ran for a seat in the National Assembly in 2017 and continued to challenge high-ranking members of Correa's government through judicial complaints. Villavicencio leaves behind a wife and five children.
President Lasso, determined to bring justice to Villavicencio's killers, stated that the crime would not go unpunished. He vowed to use the full weight of the law to combat organized crime and protect the nation from further violence. In response to the assassination, Lasso announced an urgent meeting to address the situation and ensure the safety and security of the electoral process. The loss of Villavicencio has deeply saddened the nation and raised concerns about the future of Ecuador's democracy in the face of escalating violence and corruption.
