Luisa González arrested in Ecuador

Luisa González is a member of the Revolución Ciudadana (RC) movement, led by former president Rafael Correa. The party was suspended in march for participating in a fraudulent electoral campaign and is not authorized for the upcoming local elections scheduled for November 29.

RC president Gabriela Rivadeneira denounced González's detention as a political act aimed at distracting attention from economic and social problems. She called on her supporters to protest to demand her immediate release.

Luisa González had lost the 2023 and 2025 presidential elections to incumbent president Daniel Noboa. She is currently in preventive detention in a high-security prison built under Noboa's presidency, where she joins other imprisoned political opponents.

Political context

The public prosecutor's office is investigating financial irregularities during the 2023 presidential campaign as part of the "Laberinto" case. According to the office, there were inconsistencies in the financial contributions and the lawful origin of the funds used.

Opponents accuse the current government of political persecution aimed at suppressing any critical voice. They point out that this arrest comes as Ecuador is going through an economic, energy, and security crisis.

Reactions

Former president Rafael Correa condemned the arrest on social networks, calling for an end to what he considers an authoritarian regime. He also asked for support for "Ecuador Vencerá", a political initiative aimed at overthrowing the current government.

Next steps

The police and the public prosecutor's office executed three arrest warrants on the night of October 22, one of which likely concerns González. Investigations are ongoing regarding the alleged illegal activities of her presidential campaign.