Ecuador's Vice President Accuses President of Political Violence

Ecuador's Vice President Verónica Abad has lodged a formal complaint against President Daniel Noboa, alleging gender-based political violence before the Electoral Contentious Court. The rift between the two leaders deepened following the 2023 presidential runoff election, with Abad stating they have not communicated since taking office. Noboa's initial decree appointed Abad as ambassador of peace in Israel, a role she deemed "useless," arguing that Ecuador lacks a significant influence in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Abad claims that Noboa's actions, including the appointment and subsequent measures, infringe upon her rights and are intended to pressure her to resign. The complaint also implicates several officials, including Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld and Deputy Minister Esteban Torres, who previously hinted at legal actions against Abad's son for alleged influence peddling. Attempts to criminally charge Abad were thwarted when Congress declined to lift her immunity. Tensions escalated as presidential adviser Diana Jácome labeled Abad an "enemy" of the government, suggesting her priorities as a mother were questionable given her son's imprisonment related to corruption allegations. The government has made multiple attempts to remove Abad from office, aiming to prevent her from assuming power in January when Noboa must step down to campaign for re-election. These efforts have included her appointment to Israel, her son's arrest, and various legal maneuvers.