Ecuadoreans have voted against allowing the return of foreign military bases in the country, frustrating US hopes of expanding its presence in the eastern Pacific region. The referendum result is a blow to Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa, who had campaigned to change the constitution to reverse a ban that the country's legislature passed in 2008. He had said it would help fight organised crime and reduce the soaring violence the country has seen in recent years, during which it has become one of the world's biggest drug-trafficking hotspots. The US had hoped the referendum would pave the way to opening a military base in Ecuador, 16 years after it was made to close a site on its Pacific coast. While Ecuador does not produce cocaine, its huge ports and proximity to Colombia and Peru - where large quantities of the drug are made - make it a desirable location for drug-trafficking gangs. About 70% of the world's cocaine passes through Ecuador, according to Noboa. His presidency has been defined by a tough military crackdown on criminal gangs, including by putting armed soldiers on the streets. Supporters say his approach has helped to fight crime, but critics say his government has resorted to authoritarian tactics. The former US military base on Ecuador's Pacific coast was closed after left-wing President Rafael Correa decided not to renew its lease and pushed for the constitutional ban. US Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem recently toured military facilities in Ecuador with Noboa. Noboa told the BBC earlier this year that he wanted foreign 'armies' to join what he has described as a 'war' against narco-trafficking groups. He has recently held talks over increased regional security and migration cooperation with US officials. The referendum also saw voters reject ending public funding for political parties and establishing a constitutional assembly to re-write Ecuador's constitution. Noboa had argued a fresh constitution would allow for tougher punishments for criminals, but critics argued it would not address wider social problems. Noboa reacted by saying he would 'respect' the outcome of the vote.
Ecuador Rejects Foreign Military Bases in Recent Referendum
Ecuador Rejects Foreign Military Bases in Recent Referendum
In a decisive referendum, Ecuadorians voted against allowing foreign military bases, challenging U.S. plans to expand its presence in the region.
Ecuador has voted against the return of foreign military bases, obstructing U.S. efforts to establish a presence in the eastern Pacific. This decision is a setback for President Daniel Noboa, who aimed to reverse a 2008 ban in hopes of combating crime and drug trafficking. The referendum results reflect public sentiment against foreign military intervention, particularly against the backdrop of increasing violence related to drug-trafficking, despite Noboa's strict military crackdown. Voters also rejected other significant constitutional changes, indicating a preference for maintaining current political structures.
