Daniel Noboa Re-elected In Ecuador’s 2025 Presidential Run-off

Ecuador’s right-wing incumbent President Daniel Noboa secured victory in the second-round presidential run-off election. Gaining a full four-year term, Noboa defeated left-wing opponent Luisa Gonzalez by a notable margin amid rising public concerns over drug-related violence and economic instability. While the election results were announced by the National Electoral Council, Gonzalez has alleged fraud and demanded a recount.

Key Points

Election Outcome and Vote Share

• Daniel Noboa won the presidential run-off with 55.8% of the vote.
• He secured a 12-point lead over his opponent Luisa Gonzalez, who received approximately 44.2%.
• The results were declared with over 90% of ballots counted.
• Noboa was initially elected during snap elections in 2023 and now holds a full 4-year term.

Claims of Electoral Fraud

• Gonzalez claimed the election was “the worst and most grotesque electoral fraud in Ecuador’s history.”
• She demanded a recount, despite the wide vote margin.
• Noboa refuted the allegations and reaffirmed public trust in the electoral process.

Background Context

• Ecuador has witnessed an increase in drug cartel violence since 2021 due to its proximity to Colombia and Peru, both major cocaine producers.
• Noboa’s campaign focused on a “mano dura” (iron-fist) approach to restore law and order.
• Violence spiked to the point where there was one killing every hour earlier in 2025.

Security Measures Under Noboa

• Noboa militarized public security, deploying troops in cities and ports.
• Targeted drug cartels and captured several high-profile leaders.
• Invited U.S. special forces to assist in anti-narcotic operations.

Economic and Social Impacts

• Rising violence deterred foreign investment and tourism, exacerbating economic challenges.
• The percentage of Ecuadorians living in poverty rose to 28%.
• Noboa has pledged economic revival, focusing on security, job creation, and foreign trade.

Opposition Profile

• Luisa Gonzalez is a left-wing politician closely associated with former President Rafael Correa.
• She had support from Leonidas Iza, a strong Indigenous leader, in the first round.
• Despite early momentum, security concerns tilted the electorate in Noboa’s favor.