Four opposition political parties in Ecuador have publicly accused the national government of attempting to remove strong political adversaries from the ballot ahead of upcoming municipal elections, describing the actions as part of a systematic campaign of political persecution.
“The persecution of those who think differently from the current regime has been a constant in recent months,” stated Gustavo Vallejo, president of the Ecuadorian Socialist Party (PSE), during a joint press conference alongside representatives from other political movements.
The political coalition convened to support the re-election bid of Quito Mayor Pabel Muñoz, a key ally of former President Rafael Correa. Vallejo cited several examples of what he described as targeted interference, including recent electoral law reforms that he argued restrict opposition movements, the suspension of political organizations such as Citizens Revolution (RC), and ongoing legal challenges aimed at disqualifying opposition leaders.
Specifically, Vallejo highlighted judicial actions seeking to block the registration of Luisa González, a former presidential candidate, for a municipal position in the province of Manabí, as well as electoral complaint proceedings filed against Mayor Muñoz that could risk his eligibility to compete.
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“We are demanding that this process be free and fair,” Vallejo added, noting that opposition forces are preparing to submit appeals to international bodies to safeguard electoral rights.
Natasha Rojas, leader of the Popular Unity party, argued that the current administration is barring viable candidates out of concern over election outcomes, describing the measures as part of an effort that jeopardizes democratic participation.
Gabriela Rivadeneira, president of Citizens Revolution, affirmed that the coalition will utilize all legal, political, and institutional channels to defend voter choice, while Cristian Coronel of the Todos movement stated that the group united to resist the exclusion of future political candidates.
The allegations follow a report published earlier this year by Amnesty International, which raised concerns regarding an increase in authoritarian practices and executive centralization under the administration of President Daniel Noboa.
