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The case of Verónica Abad, current vice president of Ecuador, symbolizes the growing judicialization of politics in Hispanic America.
Faced with accusations, sanctions and maneuvers that appear to be orchestrated by the Executive, her situation exposes not only the challenges she faces as a public servant, but also the serious risks to Ecuadorian democracy.
The administration of Daniel Noboa has demonstrated a disturbing inclination towards authoritarianism, employing tactics that undermine the foundations of a republican system. In this context, Abad has become the main target of a government that seeks to silence all internal opposition and consolidate its power.
The «Exile» to Turkey: Diplomacy or Persecution?
President Noboa recently decreed the transfer of Abad to the Embassy of Ecuador in Turkey, justifying it as a diplomatic measure. However, this decision has been interpreted as an attempt to banish her from the national political scene.
In a letter posted on social media, Abad described the transfer as a “covert coup d’état” and an “attack on Ecuadorian democracy.”
The lack of logistical and security conditions to execute this transfer adds even more doubts about the true intention behind the measure. Her lawyer, Dominique Dávila, has pointed out that Abad has up to 30 days to comply with the decree, as established by the Foreign Service Law, dismissing the arbitrary urgency imposed by the Executive.
It is evident that this maneuver does not seek to strengthen Ecuador’s diplomatic representation, but to weaken a vice president who has been critical of the policies of Noboa and those around her. The lack of transparency in this process not only calls into question the legality of the decree, but also reflects a disregard for the balance of powers.
The Political Violence Trap: Silencing Dissidents
Abad also faces a hearing for a complaint of gender-based political violence filed by Diana Jácome, presidential advisor. This accusation, which could disqualify her politically for two years, is a clear example of how the government uses the courts as tools of intimidation and retaliation.
Curiously, this complaint comes after the Electoral Contentious Court rejected a similar accusation filed by Abad against Noboa and other officials. In it, the vice president claimed to have been the victim of harassment to force her to resign, thus avoiding the presidential succession provided for her in the Constitution.
The speed with which Abad’s complaints are dismissed contrasts with the speed with which the accusations against her are processed, which shows a clear institutional bias. It is worrying that the government allows political disputes to be settled in the courts, instead of guaranteeing an open and transparent debate.
A Government that Disregards the Rule of Law
The case of Verónica Abad is not an isolated incident but is part of a broader pattern of abuse of power that has characterized the Noboa administration. Since the beginning of its mandate, the Executive has demonstrated a systematic disregard for the Constitution and the laws, using sanctions and decrees as tools to eliminate opponents.
A clear example of this strategy was the initial 150-day suspension imposed on Abad, based on accusations of non-compliance during her tenure as ambassador to Israel. Although this sanction was overturned by a protective action, the political damage was already done, demonstrating how the government manipulates institutions to meet its goals.
This authoritarian trend not only threatens Abad’s career, but also endangers the country’s democratic stability.
By prioritizing political interests over respect for the rule of law, Noboa is setting a dangerous precedent for future governments.
An Authoritarian Model Under Construction
The case of Verónica Abad must be analyzed in the broader context of the region, where populism and authoritarianism are gaining ground. As in other nations, Ecuador faces the risk of consolidating a model of government that uses justice as a weapon to silence those who question power.
Democracies are not destroyed overnight; They gradually fall apart when leaders ignore the laws and manipulate institutions to serve their interests. In this sense, what is happening to Abad is not just an attack on his person, but a blow to the fundamental principles that underpin the Republic.
Regardless of political likes or dislikes, all Ecuadorians should be concerned about the use of authoritarian tactics that weaken institutions and violate fundamental rights.
If Ecuador is to preserve its republican system, it is crucial that political leaders respect the Constitution and that citizens demand transparency and justice. Abad, despite the adversities, has remained steadfast in her defense of these principles, demonstrating that resistance to authoritarianism is possible.
The fate of the vice president will be a test for Ecuadorian democracy. Her case raises a crucial question: will the country allow power to be used to silence dissidents, or will it rise up to defend fundamental freedoms?
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