Ricardo Patiño, a prominent figure in Ecuador’s political landscape and a key ally of former President Rafael Correa, has returned to Ecuador after a four-year self-imposed exile in Mexico.

Patiño, known for his influential roles during Correa’s administration, arrived at Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport on August 17th, where he was welcomed by supporters of the Citizen Revolution movement, as well as family and friends.

In his first remarks upon returning, Patiño expressed a mix of emotions. “I am happy to be back in my homeland,” he said, while also voicing his frustration with the current state of the country.

“I am indignant and rebellious because they have destroyed Ecuador. United, we can recover the country,” he declared. His return marks his acceptance of a candidacy for the National Assembly under the Citizen Revolution banner.

A Controversial Political Career

Ricardo Patiño played a significant role in Rafael Correa’s government, which lasted from January 15, 2007, to May 24, 2017. His influence was reflected in the high-profile positions he held, including Minister of Economy, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Defense. Throughout his tenure, Patiño was regarded as one of Correa’s most trusted political operators.

However, Patiño’s career was not without controversy. As Minister of Economy and Finance, he was embroiled in the scandal known as the “Pativideos,” and as Foreign Minister, he faced the “Narcovalija” scandal, both of which cast long shadows over his political legacy.

In April 2019, Patiño chose self-exile in Mexico to avoid a judicial process for alleged incitement, for which he was ordered to be held in preventive detention. The case has since expired, lifting the precautionary measures against him and allowing Patiño, now 70 years old, to return to Ecuador and pursue his political ambitions.

Returning to Politics with Determination

Upon his arrival in Ecuador, Patiño reiterated his commitment to the Citizen Revolution movement and his desire to “put the country in order.” He emphasized that his return is not only to accept the candidacy but also to support the efforts of left-wing groups in uniting for the upcoming elections.

Patiño expressed both optimism and a sense of responsibility, stating, “I know that together we can recover it, we can put the country in order, we can move the country forward, end this time of so much destruction, so much crime, so much violence.” His rhetoric remains as fiery as ever, particularly against what he describes as the destructive policies of recent neoliberal governments.

The Scandals: Pativideos and Narcovalija

Patiño’s political career has been marred by significant scandals. The “Pativideos” incident in 2007, during his time as Minister of Economy, involved the release of a video that raised suspicions of market manipulation. The video showed Patiño discussing with former Minister Armando Rodas and financial experts about the potential impact of scaring the bond market—a conversation that fueled rumors of deliberate manipulation to benefit certain financial interests.

Although Patiño and Rodas claimed that the video was taken out of context, the incident left a lasting stain on Patiño’s reputation.

Another major scandal during Patiño’s tenure was the “Narcovalija” case in 2012, in which 40 kilos of cocaine were found in a diplomatic pouch from Ecuador to Italy.

Patiño, who was then Foreign Minister, had authorized the shipment of the pouch, which was later found to contain the drugs. The incident raised serious questions about the security and oversight of diplomatic channels under his leadership.

Facing the Future

Despite these controversies, Patiño remains a formidable figure in Ecuadorian politics. His return from exile is a significant event for the Citizen Revolution movement, which seeks to regain influence in a politically divided Ecuador. With no other criminal charges against him, Patiño is set to formally accept his candidacy for the National Assembly, continuing his long and contentious political journey.

As Patiño steps back into the public eye, his influence, rhetoric, and the controversies that have followed him throughout his career will undoubtedly shape the upcoming elections and the future of Ecuador’s political landscape.