Ecuador's Indigenous Organizations Weigh Influence in April Presidential Run-Off

Ecuador's major Indigenous organization, CONAIE, and leftist groups have decided not to support incumbent President Daniel Noboa in the April run-off. They have asked leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez to consider their proposals. The Indigenous vote appears divided as some groups back Noboa.

Ecuador's leading Indigenous organization, CONAIE, alongside leftist social groups, announced on Wednesday their decision not to back incumbent President Daniel Noboa in the upcoming April run-off election. They have put forth a list of proposals for leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez.

Despite Noboa's narrow victory over Gonzalez in February, where he won by less than 1%, the Indigenous vote remains divided. CONAIE's leader, Leonidas Iza, who secured 5.25% in February, could play a pivotal role in influencing the final result.

While CONAIE criticized Noboa's policies, including his tax increase and security measures, other Indigenous groups have expressed support for Noboa, provided he engages in dialogue regarding Amazon policies. The overall political landscape remains complex with divided allegiances among Indigenous communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)