The mandatory debate of the candidates for the President of the Republic is a scenario that will enable the introduction of opinions, plans and criteria on certain issues.

Regardless of their motives or campaign office recommendations, there are candidates who choose not to talk to some media, preventing their audience from discovering them through interviews.

CNE reveals 1469 early discoveries in the campaign in 16 provinces of the country

Part of the freedoms and rights in Ecuador is to inform and be informed, and the media is obliged to bring news and other journalistic genres to viewers, radio listeners, digital audiences or readers.

Not getting an answer to an interview is a limitation for that genre, but not an obstacle to practicing journalism. The Code of Democracy establishes that the media must give equal space to candidates during the campaign period. It is not mentioned that the candidates refused to attend an interview or a press call.

The pre-election campaign for the presidential candidates will be launched and they will have 35 days to promote

What is mandatory is to participate in the forum, which is scheduled for August 13. This becomes a crucial stage for voters, especially undecided voters, to learn more about the eight candidates who will be heading to Carondelet.

In the pre-campaign, it is already being said how to develop communications for the eventual presidency, but for now it is still campaign time to find out if the scheme is to deny citizens – who prefer a certain medium – the right to information through an interview in it. Another thing is the debate, for which the national debate committee prepares a bank of 40 questions. The wisdom of the members of this team is essential to offer elements of value to voters.

Both in the case of interviews and debates, the answers go to the citizens who will elect a new president on August 20 and must have all the tools to make their decision transparently. (OR)