Ecuador’s youngest president outlines a four-pillar plan for security, energy, and economic growth amid political challenges
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, the youngest leader in the nation’s history, has formally announced his bid for a second term. His re-election campaign, centered on addressing Ecuador’s pressing challenges, promises continuity in governance through a comprehensive four-pillar plan focused on security, energy reform, economic growth, and institutional strengthening. Despite ambitious goals, Noboa faces political turbulence that could shape the trajectory of his campaign.
A Tumultuous First Term
Noboa assumed office in October 2023, following a snap election that marked his meteoric rise to power. His 18-month term has been overshadowed by internal strife, particularly with Vice President Verónica Abad. Shortly after taking office, Noboa reassigned Abad to a diplomatic mission in Israel, effectively sidelining her from domestic affairs.
The strained relationship has escalated into a legal and political battle, with the administration seeking Abad’s removal through an administrative investigation. Complicating matters, Noboa’s decision to appoint Secretary of Planning Sariha Moya as acting vice president during his campaign has drawn criticism for bypassing constitutional norms. Meanwhile, María José Pinto, a former cabinet member known for her work addressing child malnutrition, has been selected as his running mate for the 2025-2029 term.
The Four Axes of Noboa’s Vision
Noboa’s re-election campaign rests on a 63-page government plan, which outlines his vision for social and economic development while addressing the country’s environmental and institutional challenges. It builds on his initial strategies, presenting specific initiatives across key sectors.
Confronting the Energy Crisis
Ecuador’s energy shortages have been a persistent issue under Noboa’s administration, and his re-election platform emphasizes resolving this crisis. The plan includes expanding renewable energy sources through public and private investments, optimizing electricity usage, and fostering technological innovation in energy systems. Noboa also aims to encourage the private sector to self-generate energy and contribute surpluses to the national grid.
Enhancing Public Security
Amid rising crime rates and organized crime activity, Noboa’s security strategy seeks to restore public trust and safety. His plan includes reforms to the penitentiary system, expanded rehabilitation and reintegration programs for inmates, and measures to combat drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal mining. Noboa also intends to introduce community-based programs targeting youth and enhance cybersecurity to protect personal data and national infrastructure.
Economic Revitalization
Economic recovery is another cornerstone of Noboa’s re-election bid. He aims to diversify Ecuador’s economy by promoting tourism, agribusiness, and the digital economy while fostering youth and female entrepreneurship. His plan includes reducing child labor, providing financial incentives to businesses hiring young workers, and implementing tax reforms to streamline processes and curb evasion. Infrastructure improvements, such as better logistics and port integration, also feature prominently.
Social Development and Inclusion
Noboa’s social agenda prioritizes healthcare access, mental health services, and the reduction of chronic childhood malnutrition. In education, he proposes improving teacher training, enhancing bilingual and intercultural education, and increasing scholarships to expand access to higher education. Vocational training programs aligned with labor market needs aim to boost youth employability.
Missing Foreign Policy Strategy
While Noboa’s domestic agenda is robust, critics have noted the absence of a foreign policy section in his plan. This omission leaves questions about how his administration intends to navigate Ecuador’s relationships with international allies and address global challenges, particularly as the country seeks foreign investment and environmental cooperation.
Campaign for Stability and Growth
Noboa has framed his campaign as a call for stability and growth, emphasizing the need to consolidate progress and implement long-term reforms. His message of continuity reflects his belief that his administration’s foundation can support Ecuador’s transition into a more secure, sustainable, and prosperous nation.
However, as the president enters the campaign trail, his ability to balance governance with political challenges will be tested. The unresolved tensions with Vice President Abad and critiques of his handling of key issues, such as the energy crisis and public safety, may become focal points of his opponents’ campaigns.
The Road Ahead
As Ecuador prepares for the 2025 election, Noboa’s vision of a “New Ecuador” hinges on voter confidence in his leadership. His campaign’s success will depend not only on the strength of his proposals but also on his ability to address the political turbulence and practical challenges that have defined his presidency.
With promises of reform, innovation, and inclusion, Noboa seeks to persuade Ecuadorians that he is the leader capable of steering the nation toward a brighter future. Whether this vision resonates with the electorate will be revealed in the months ahead.
What about his promise for what he would do about the four missing boys on December 8th? What will he do about the military kidnapping them?