Ecuador's Presidential Election Heads to a Tightly Contested Runoff

Ecuador’s presidential race ended without any candidate reaching the required 50% threshold, leading to a decisive runoff between incumbent President Daniel Noboa and leftist contender Luisa González. Noboa secured a narrow lead in the first round held in February, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle that mirrors the country's deep political divisions.

Recent coverage from sources such as El País, the Associated Press, and Reuters notes that the runoff, scheduled for April 13, 2025, unfolds amid growing concerns over rising violence, economic challenges, and widespread public dissatisfaction. As more than 13 million voters prepare to hit the polls, the election is seen as a referendum on both current policies and the path forward for Ecuador.