In a tragic turn of events, Fernando Villavicencio, a popular candidate for the Ecuadoran presidency, was shot and killed while leaving a campaign rally in Quito. This shocking incident has prompted President Guillermo Lasso to declare a state of emergency and attribute the assassination to organized crime. Villavicencio, a 59-year-old advocate against corruption who had previously expressed concerns about receiving threats, was fatally attacked outside a stadium after addressing his supporters. President Lasso expressed his outrage and assured the public that the perpetrators would be brought to justice, vowing that the general elections scheduled for August 20 would proceed as planned.
Villavicencio, who had been ranked as the second most popular candidate in recent opinion polls, had been surrounded by three layers of security, according to the National Police. Despite these precautions, the assailants managed to ambush him, firing approximately 30 shots. Tragically, Villavicencio suffered three gunshot wounds to the head, dying at the scene. Nine others were injured in the attack, including a candidate for the national legislature and two policemen.
President Lasso, in a YouTube address, announced that the Armed Forces were mobilized nationwide to ensure the security of citizens and guarantee the integrity of the upcoming elections. He declared a two-month state of emergency and called for three days of national mourning in honor of Villavicencio’s memory. Lasso described the assassination as a political crime with a terrorist character, raising concerns about the possible sabotage of the electoral process. In response to these events, the president has requested assistance from the FBI in the investigation.
The Ecuadorian authorities swiftly took action, arresting six suspects in raids conducted in southern Quito and a neighboring town. These individuals, believed to be foreign nationals connected to organized crime groups, were found in possession of firearms, grenades, motorbikes, and a stolen vehicle. The police also neutralized an explosive device discovered at the crime scene.
This tragic incident highlights Ecuador’s ongoing struggle with violence related to drug trafficking. Over the past years, the country has witnessed an increase in crime, with the homicide rate doubling between 2021 and 2022. President Lasso condemned organized crime and promised that the full weight of the law would be applied to combat it. He acknowledged the international community’s support and expressed determination to protect the democratic values of Ecuador.
As a journalist, Villavicencio played an essential role in exposing a corruption scheme that led to the conviction of former president Rafael Correa. He later served as the president of the legislative oversight commission, where he continued to fight against corruption. Prior to his assassination, Villavicencio had reported receiving threats, allegedly from the leader of a criminal gang associated with drug trafficking.
The tragic death of Fernando Villavicencio has left the nation in mourning and raised concerns about the safety of political candidates and the democratic process. The Ecuadorian people, as well as leaders from around the world, have condemned this act of violence and expressed solidarity with Villavicencio’s family. In this challenging time, President Lasso remains dedicated to upholding the principles of democracy and justice.
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