05 Jan 2025 | 06:35 PM UTC
Ecuador: Heightened security around the Carondelet Presidential Palace in downtown Quito, likely through mid-January
Heightened security outside the Carondelet Presidential Palace, in Quito, Ecuador, likely through mid-January, due to electoral campaign.
A large security deployment is likely to continue in downtown Quito through at least mid-January, due to the start of the campaign for presidential and congressional elections. Police have closed roads and access to the Carondelet Presidential Palace. A rally in support of President Daniel Noboa is expected during the afternoon of Jan. 5.
Security measures are likely to continue due to tensions surrounding the upcoming election. Vice President Veronica Abad, a critic of Noboa, said on Jan. 4 that she would take over the presidency on Jan. 5, alleging Noboa should step aside during the campaign, and asked the national police and military to support her. Leaders of both institutions, however, soon responded, saying they will continue to follow President Noboa's orders.
Significant transport and business disruptions are likely to continue through at least Jan. 5. Heightened security in the area is also likely for the coming days.
Plan for delays and alternative routes if operating in downtown Quito in early January. Strictly heed instructions from authorities.
The security measures in downtown Quito coincide with the official start of the campaign for the presidential and congressional elections, scheduled for Feb. 9. President Noboa is among the candidates, looking for a full term in office; he won a special election in 2023, to finish the term of Guillermo Lasso, who was impeached and closed Congress, forcing a new election.
Members of the opposition have said Noboa should temporarily step down of the presidency to campaign for reelection, as some members of Congress have done. However, his supporters and members of his administration argue he does not have to, as he is not seeking reelection but his first full term in office.
