The sudden murder of Ecuadorian politician Fernando Villavicencio has thrown the country’s presidential election into turmoil, as his running-mate takes the lead in the race. Villavicencio was tragically shot three times in the head after a campaign rally in Quito, and his party has now put forward Andrea Gonzalez as its presidential candidate. The shocking incident has ignited discussions on crime, corruption, and political violence within the nation.
Fernando Villavicencio’s Construye party swiftly announced that Andrea Gonzalez, a 36-year-old environmental advocate, will be their contender in the upcoming August 20 election. The party also indicated that they are in the process of selecting a vice-presidential candidate. Gonzalez, known for her dedication to environmental causes, is set to participate in the upcoming presidential debate in the capital on Sunday.
The party, through social media, conveyed their determination to honor Mr. Villavicencio’s legacy by choosing Andrea Gonzalez as the torchbearer for their cause. The role of vice-presidential candidate will be filled by an individual who shares the struggles and values championed by Villavicencio himself.
Villavicencio’s assassination has not only sent shockwaves through Ecuador but has also raised concerns about the country’s security and stability. The candidate’s campaign revolved around issues of corruption and crime, including his allegations of connections between organized crime and government officials.
As the nation grapples with the loss of Fernando Villavicencio, his widow Veronica Sarauz demanded accountability from the state for the tragic incident. She expressed her dissatisfaction with the choice of Andrea Gonzalez as her husband’s replacement, while also calling into question the role of the state in ensuring her husband’s safety.
With six Colombian suspects in custody, believed to be members of organized criminal groups, the Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso has called on the FBI to join the investigation. Meanwhile, the sudden shift in Ecuador’s political landscape, coupled with the tragic events, has ignited conversations about the country’s future, security measures, and the ongoing fight against corruption.
