Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has requested electricity assistance from Colombia to mitigate the crisis involving power outages lasting up to 14 hours daily. With upcoming presidential elections, Noboa is concerned about declining popularity and is optimistic about restoring public trust as he prepares for discussions with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has turned to Colombia for assistance amid a significant electricity crisis impacting his country. Since September 23, Ecuador has been experiencing power outages lasting up to 14 hours daily, which has contributed to a decline in Noboa’s popularity in anticipation of the presidential elections scheduled for February 9, 2025. During a recent interview, Noboa appealed directly to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, highlighting the urgent need for energy support and advancing discussions for their upcoming meeting ahead of the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali. Noboa recognized Colombia’s previous commitment to aid Ecuador but noted that energy sales from Colombia had ceased since October 1, due to a concurrent drought affecting both nations. He expressed appreciation for any assistance that may be provided, stating, “We would be very grateful and it is not free, it is that he sells (energy).” Furthermore, Noboa acknowledged the ongoing challenges of his administration, confessing that public surveys indicated a drop in his favorability ratings related to the current situation, yet he remains optimistic about restoring public trust. He stated, “If I were a normal citizen, I would be upset with the president if there were blackouts, whether it is his fault or not… what matters is that at the beginning of December, people will have their lives back to normal.” Noboa, a businessman and politician in office since November 23, 2022, previously led in polls for the upcoming election but now faces increased scrutiny as he endeavors to find solutions to Ecuador’s pressing energy crises.
The situation in Ecuador has escalated due to a severe electricity crisis characterized by prolonged power outages since late September. The crisis arose primarily from a drought affecting hydroelectric power generation—a major source of electricity in Ecuador. Amidst these challenges, public confidence in President Noboa’s administration has waned, as citizens express discontent over the ongoing blackouts. Furthermore, the backdrop of the upcoming presidential elections heightens the urgency for Noboa’s government to effectively address the crisis and restore public trust. In light of these developments, the role of neighboring Colombia becomes pivotal, given their historical cooperation in energy trade.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador is seeking energy assistance from Colombia as the country endures significant power outages attributed to a drought. His administration faces challenges in maintaining public approval with elections on the horizon, making it crucial to resolve these issues swiftly. Noboa’s candid engagement with Colombia and acknowledgment of public sentiment reflects his commitment to addressing the electricity crisis and restoring normalcy for Ecuadorian citizens.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
