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Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso has taken decisive action to address the escalating wave of violence in the country by declaring a state of emergency. The government has suspended people’s rights to assembly in certain areas and deployed thousands of soldiers to regain control.
On Tuesday, President Guillermo Lasso declared a state of emergency that encompasses all of Ecuador’s prisons. (Photo: Ruptly TV)
President Guillermo Lasso’s Approach
Since taking office in May 2021, President Guillermo Lasso has shown a willingness to use state of emergency declarations as a means to address various crises. These have included dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, quelling prison riots, combatting drug trafficking, and ending protests.
According to My San Antonio, on Tuesday, President Guillermo Lasso declared a state of emergency that encompasses all of Ecuador’s prisons.
The move of President Guillermo Lasso came after a violent incident at the Litoral Penitentiary in Guayaquil, where clashes led to 18 fatalities, including an injured police officer.
The state of emergency decree allows for the deployment of 2,700 soldiers and police officers to reinforce prison security and quell unrest.
President Guillermo Lasso’s earlier emergency measure also suspended people’s rights to assembly and free movement in two provinces, one of which experienced the tragic shooting of a mayor over the weekend.
President Guillermo Lasso believes that suspending these rights in areas plagued by violence is essential to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of citizens.
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Causes of Violence
Ecuador has been wrestling with a serious outbreak of violence, primarily attributed to conflicts among organized crime groups. President Guillermo Lasso and authorities have reported an alarming surge in armed attacks, kidnappings, robberies, and extortion incidents.
According to Associated Press, the government’s effort to curb drug trafficking and dismantle criminal networks has encountered challenges, as some territories remain strongholds for drug cartels.
Shortly after the emergency measures of President Guillermo Lasso were announced, a Molotov cocktail exploded in an Attorney General’s office in the province of Esmeraldas, a territory considered vital for drug cartels.
Armed Forces found and deactivated explosive devices at various gas stations in the province.
The international community, including the United States embassy in Ecuador and the United Nations Office, has expressed concern over the violence and urged the government to intensify efforts to combat criminal activities.
President Guillermo Lasso is calling for thorough investigations and exemplary punishment for those responsible have been made in response to the mayor’s shooting and the resulting casualties.
Ecuador is currently facing a critical situation with a surge in violence caused by organized crime groups. President Guillermo Lasso’s decision to suspend people’s rights to assemble and deploy military forces to prisons is aimed at restoring order and protecting citizens.
However, the challenges posed by drug trafficking and criminal activities remain complex and will require continued efforts from the government and international cooperation to ensure long-term stability and safety in the country.
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