Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa was sworn in for a full term on Saturday, vowing to intensify the nation’s fight against drug trafficking and to stimulate a faltering economy.
The ceremony, held at the National Assembly, marked the start of Noboa’s extended leadership following his decisive April election victory.
Sworn in by Assembly President Niels Olsen Peet, Noboa raised his hand in triumph as he accepted the presidential sash, reaffirming his commitment to security and economic stability.
“The progressive reduction of homicides will be a non-negotiable goal,” Noboa declared. “We will maintain our fight against drug trafficking, seize illegal weapons, ammunition, and explosives, and exercise greater control at the country’s ports.”
Noboa, who initially came to power in 2023 to complete the term of his predecessor, has taken a hardline stance on crime. During his prior 18 months in office, he declared war on criminal gangs, deployed the military domestically, and enacted harsher penalties for drug-related offences and terrorism.
He also secured a $4 billion agreement with the International Monetary Fund, cut the fiscal deficit, and explored further financing options with Chinese banks. Noboa has pledged to make Ecuador a “safe, stable, and competitive environment that fosters growth, protects investments, and guarantees real opportunities”.
However, his administration has faced scrutiny for hiring controversial US security contractor Erik Prince to advise Ecuador’s security forces. Critics, including opposition lawmakers and human rights groups, have raised concerns about accountability and potential abuses.
Despite claims of a 15% fall in violent deaths last year, government data revealed a 58% increase in such incidents during the first four months of 2025, totalling over 3,000 deaths — underscoring the scale of Ecuador’s security crisis.
On the economic front, Noboa projects 4% growth this year, though Ecuador’s central bank is forecasting a more modest 2.8%. The country is grappling with a public debt level of nearly 52% of GDP, declining oil output, and high country risk, which may hinder access to international capital markets.
Nevertheless, Noboa’s party enjoys a legislative majority, giving him a strong political base to advance his agenda.
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