Presidential Candidate in Ecuador Demands Investigation into Shooting Incident

Presidential Candidate Demands Investigation into Shooting Incident in Ecuador

One of Ecuador’s presidential candidates, Otto Sonnenholzner, has called for an investigation into a shooting incident that occurred just meters away from where he was dining with his family on Saturday. The incident took place just one day before the country’s presidential elections.

Sonnenholzner, who was having breakfast with his wife and daughters at a restaurant, stated that a shootout broke out a few minutes after they arrived. Fortunately, neither he nor his family were harmed. Videos show Sonnenholzner and his family leaving the premises with bulletproof protection.

This shooting incident comes shortly after the shocking assassination of another presidential candidate, Fernando Villavicencio, who was campaigning against gang violence and corruption. Sonnenholzner described the incident as another example of the daily challenges faced by Ecuadorians.

The Ecuador National Police later announced that they had detained five individuals following an assault at a sports store in Guayaquil city. Two firearms, sports clothing, and cash were confiscated at the scene. The police clarified that the shooting was unrelated to the election and was not targeted at Sonnenholzner and his family.

Ecuador has experienced a deadly escalation of violence in recent years, particularly on its Pacific coast, as criminal groups battle for control over narcotics distribution, primarily cocaine. Villavicencio, a 59-year-old lawmaker known for his anti-corruption activism and investigative journalism, was shot dead while leaving a campaign rally in the capital, Quito, on August 10. He had received death threats from gangs due to his political promises.

The murder of Villavicencio has garnered international attention and has shaken the country ahead of the upcoming presidential and legislative elections. His family has accused the state of “murder by willful omission” and filed a legal complaint against the government, claiming inadequate protection for the candidate.

Despite the violence, Ecuadorians will still head to the polls on Sunday to choose between eight presidential candidates. Tackling crime has been a prominent issue in the election campaign, with candidates promising to improve security in the country.

Gissella Cecibel Molina, a colleague and friend of Villavicencio, was injured in the shooting incident last week. Despite the risk of partial blindness from the attack, Molina remains defiant and plans to run for re-election in the National Assembly, emphasizing the importance of ensuring justice is served.

In response to the recent shooting, Sonnenholzner reiterated the need to address the serious crisis. He expressed his belief that no one should have to experience such fear and called for an end to violence. Sonnenholzner commended the courage of Ecuadorians who will leave their homes to vote responsibly for a better Ecuador.

What measures will the authorities implement to ensure the safety of all candidates during the upcoming presidential elections in Ecuador?

Yaquil, believed to be connected to the shooting incident. They also mentioned that they would be carrying out a thorough investigation to determine the motive behind the incident.

In response to the incident, Sonnenholzner expressed his concern and demanded a comprehensive investigation into the matter. He emphasized the need to ensure the safety of all candidates during the election period, as well as the importance of a fair and peaceful electoral process.

The wave of violence in Ecuador’s political landscape has raised concerns among the public and politicians alike. There have been growing calls for stronger security measures and efforts to combat organized crime and corruption.

Ecuador’s presidential elections, which have been marked by violence and controversy, are set to take place on Sunday. The shooting incident has added to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the elections, prompting authorities to increase security measures.

As the investigations into the shooting incident continue, Ecuadorians are looking to political leaders for reassurance and action. The safety and security of the candidates, as well as the integrity of the electoral process, are crucial in ensuring a democratic and peaceful transition of power in the country.