Ecuador: Presidential inauguration in Quito May 24

Event

Security measures in the capital Quito will likely be reinforced ahead of the inauguration of President-Elect Lenín Moreno on Wednesday, May 24. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the National Assembly beginning at 10:00 (local time). Road closures, checkpoints, and a visible security presence is to be anticipated in the vicinity. Increased security measures and disruptions are also likely at Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), particularly in the morning as world leaders arrive ahead of the ceremony and in the evening as they leave.

Protests are possible, both by anti-Moreno activists as well as due to the controversial presence of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whose country is currently completing its second month of near-daily and often violent protests (more than 50 killed). Also present will be the heads of state of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Paraguay, and Peru.

Context

Moreno of the ruling PAIS Alliance party won the April 2 presidential elections with 51.16 percent of the vote, versus opposition candidate Guillermo Lasso’s 48.84 percent. Lasso had contested the results, citing fraud, and called for a recount as well as protests. Sociopolitical tensions have been high in Ecuador in recent months, with similar allegations of electoral fraud levied following general elections (including the first round of presidential elections) held on February 19.

Advice

Individuals present in Ecuador are advised to avoid protests and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.