President Noboa’s forceful extraction of ex-Vice President Jorge Glas from Quito’s Mexican embassy has garnered broad support from Ecuadorians, despite global condemnation. Glas sought refuge to evade a corruption conviction, seen as politically motivated by him and Mexico. The raid on May 5 resulted in diplomatic ties being cut with Mexico and Nicaragua. A Perfiles de Opinión survey shows 60% of Ecuadorians backing the action, while 40% fear worsening conflicts and damage to Ecuador’s international image.
Paulina Recalde, director of Perfiles de Opinión, views the raid as a potential abuse of power, amidst ongoing corruption issues in the country. Ecuador held a second referendum within a year, initiated by Noboa, as corruption arrests surged. Political analyst Jacobo García notes Ecuadorians’ preference for decisive action amid corruption and impunity, overlooking legal debates. Several officials from Correa’s administration fled to Mexico during judicial proceedings, with some, like María de los Ángeles Duarte, resorting to drastic measures to evade justice.
García explains that these events have swayed the majority’s favor towards the assault over international norms.
