QUITO, Ecuador (AP) — Ecuador’s fledgling president got a resounding victory Sunday in a referendum that he touted as a way to crack down on criminal gangs behind a spiraling wave of violence.
An official quick count showed that Ecuadorians overwhelmingly voted “yes” to all nine questions focused on tightening security measures, rejecting only two more controversial economic proposals.
The quick count was announced by the head of the Electoral National Council, Diana Atamaint. It confirmed a private exit poll released hours before that indicated a resounding victory and sign of support for President Daniel Noboa, the scion of a wealthy banana exporting family.
Among the measures approved are President Noboa’s call to deploy the army in the fight against the gangs, to loosen obstacles for extraditing accused criminals and to lengthen prison sentences for convicted drug traffickers.
Storm relief and funding for programs related to Maine's deadliest
Patrols near Kinmen 'beyond reproach'
EU mulls boosting military spending, relying less on U.S.
China's national legislature to hold press conference ahead of annual session
Diver pinned under water by an alligator figured he had choice: Lose his arm or lose his life
Saudi students taking classes in Mandarin
Leaders highlight goals, tasks in talks
Eco park adjacent to residential buildings enables villagers to enjoy scenic views
Philippine troops kill 12 suspected Muslim rebels in clash that wounded seven soldiers
Procuratorates advance public interest litigation
Defund Columbia: Robert Kraft pulls his money as other donors blast 'f*****g crazy' anti
What to expect at two sessions in pivotal year