The hackneyed phrase ‘today there is a democratic party’ is used to mark election day after the return of democracy in Ecuador in 1979. The real value lies in the power of citizens to decide who governs them.

Eight binomials appear on the ballot that voters receive this August 20. They are the ones who will decide the winning candidate, although with that determination Ecuador should win.

vote without fear

Political stability and social peace is the initial purpose in the conditions in which the elections are held after the posthumous cross decreed on May 17 by President Guillermo Lasso as a way out of the political crisis, and in parallel the scourge of narco-criminal organizations that do not give up.

Ecuador today requires an electorate committed to its principles, desires and needs. It is true that although the primary system governs the country, it is the parties and movements that nominate candidates, but you must choose among them with legitimate conviction and conscience in order for the people to win.

Read the latest news about the elections this Sunday, August 20

The candidate who receives the most votes today or, if there is a vote, the two who will appear on the ballot next October 15, must feel the commitment to the trust of the citizens as an obligation to solve local problems.

After the polls close at 5:00 p.m. and the results are known in the evening, those who appear on the ballot must begin to gather their wills and leave behind their political differences to work for the good of Ecuador.

new policy

The difficult moment the country is going through will only be overcome with the contribution of everyone: politicians, businessmen, trade unions and citizens, including and engaging international support. Consensus is urgent.

The announcement of a peaceful, orderly and responsible transition of the current regime is an encouragement. Political maturity and participation of citizens, from elections to the Government, are essential for the victory of the country. (OR)