The escalating violence in Ecuador has prompted 45 mayors to request police protection, as reported on Wednesday by Patricio Maldonado, the president of the Association of Ecuadorian Municipalities (AME). Since 2023, 22 local officials, including two mayors—one of whom was recent victim Brigitte Garcia—have tragically lost their lives in violent circumstances, evoking profound concern throughout the nation.

The increase in violence has deeply affected Ecuadorian society, influencing people from various socio-economic groups. According to Maldonado, criminal groups have focused their attention on mayors and municipal officials, delivering threats and instilling a sense of fear among the general population. In reaction to these concerning events, President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in January, a move that was later prolonged in March. This action was prompted by an extraordinary occurrence where armed attackers forcefully entered a television channel in Guayaquil, which was conducting a live broadcast at the time.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Ecuadorian government has heeded the call for protection, extending assistance to 17 mayors thus far, as confirmed by Homero Castanier, executive director of the AME. Castanier emphasized the diverse security arrangements among mayors, stating:

Some mayors have public security, provided by the national police; others have private security; and some have mixed security, meaning both public and private. For reasons of confidentiality, I cannot provide the names of the mayors who currently have security.

Furthermore, he urged the national government to conduct a risk analysis for all 221 mayors in the country. Castanier emphasized the need for authorities’ tranquility to continue their work. He also highlighted the role of the national security and protection unit of the national police in conducting these analyses to prevent potential attacks.

Castanier also underscored that the situation strikes at the democratic stability of Ecuador. He articulated that when elected officials are being assassinated, it turns politics into an extreme sport, exposing authorities to danger when they engage in political activities. At a time when politics should be synonymous with serving and improving the quality of life for people, many individuals may now refrain from even considering a candidacy, fearing for their own lives and the safety of their families.

Maldonado reaffirmed AME’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the rights of citizens and advocating for their well-being, a responsibility taken on since citizens entrusted them with representation. This underscores the urgency of addressing the safety and security concerns faced by municipal officials and their communities, calling for a unified and decisive response from authorities.