As Correísmo section of the Assembly threatens impeachment, Salazar continues to bring corruption charges against politicians and members of the judiciary.

Prosecutor Diana Salazar stands as a polarizing figure in Ecuador’s legal landscape, commanding both admiration and criticism for her handling of high-profile cases. Before the Purge case, she enjoyed a commendable approval rating from a citizen opinion poll yet faced accusations of selective justice from detractors.

Salazar’s tenure is characterized by decisive action, evoking either staunch support or vehement opposition. The Purge case, in particular, reignites debates about her role as the State Attorney General. Notable figures like Pablo M., a former legislator of the Social Christian Party (PSC), and Fabiola G., the former president of the Court of Justice of Guayas, find themselves in preventive detention alongside others accused of organized crime.

Supporters laud Salazar’s efforts, praising her as a stalwart in the fight against corruption, narcopolitics, and organized crime. They view her involvement in cases like Metastasis as emblematic of her commitment to justice. Conversely, her critics accuse her of pursuing personal vendettas and political expediency, suggesting that the Purge case is a maneuver to evade impeachment and settle scores with adversaries.

Public support is high

At 42 years old, Diana Salazar assumed the role of Attorney General in April 2019, securing unanimous approval from the Council for Citizen Participation and Transitory Social Control. Her academic prowess is evident, evidenced by an impressive score of 88.17 out of 100 in the selection process, despite facing criticism, including derogatory monikers like “Fiscal 10/20” and “Lady Impericia.”

Throughout her career, Salazar has overseen landmark cases such as FIFA Gate, Odebrecht, and Bribery 2012-2016, often drawing ire from political factions like Correismo for her unyielding pursuit of justice. Despite the challenges, she remains resolute, tackling ongoing cases like Sinohydro, Reconstruction of Manabí, Encuentro, and Metastasis.

Amidst mounting political tensions and threats of impeachment, Salazar stands firm, attributing attacks on her integrity to political adversaries and criminal elements seeking to undermine her efforts. The road to impeachment grows increasingly fraught as factions vie for control. However, according to Henry Kronfle, president of the legislature, the necessary votes to impeach Salazar may not be forthcoming. The Citizen Revolution’s push for her removal on grounds of alleged misconduct in multiple court cases faces significant hurdles.

The looming specter of impeachment prompts polarized responses, with constitutional lawyer José Chalco commending Salazar’s steadfast commitment to upholding the law, while figures like Priscila Schettini of the Popular Legal Action collective accuse her of incompetence and favoritism towards certain political factions. It should be noted that Schettini is the wife of former Ombudsman Freddy Carrión, who was prosecuted by Salazar’s office for sexual assault and sentenced to three years in prison. Schettini blames Salazar for her husband’s conviction, stating that it was a political persecution.

Despite the tumultuous political climate, Salazar maintains a considerable level of public support, with approval ratings surpassing those of the National Assembly, judges, and prosecutors. Her handling of the country’s insecurity crisis, particularly in cases like Metastasis, earns her widespread praise from citizens, reflected in positive sentiments expressed on social media platforms.

As the political landscape continues to shift, Salazar’s future remains uncertain. While she professes disinterest in pursuing a political career, speculations linger about her potential role in future elections. In the face of mounting opposition, Salazar’s fate rests in the hands of legislative deliberations and public opinion, as Ecuador braces for the outcome of a trial that could redefine the country’s legal and political landscape.