We will probably never know why the president declared a nationwide state of emergency with a curfew, without differentiating the different risks or consequences in each area. Worse, in response to the criminals’ response of lack of control and violence, the general read an almost impromptu declaration of “internal armed conflict”. Our politicians are so bad that far from recognizing mistakes and recounting the problems they face in holding power, they invent stories about non-existent or other people’s victories. Will we ever have an honest and capable person to preside with generosity and humility?

From the president, through every government or political leader to the last citizen, we can contribute to getting out of the current disaster without the need for money or time, just honesty and responsibility.

Have we hit rock bottom?

Security guards must not be re-educated to stop punching, kicking, beating, stripping, taunting with bandit-like trombabul to harass and humiliate those they arrest. It is a poor performance of the job they were trained to do. Their superiors must correct, guide them towards legality and seriousness so that they can better perform the tasks entrusted to them. No one benefits from bullying. Inside and outside of Ecuador, we are failing more because potential tourists and investors see what these people are capable of doing in front of the cameras, proudly broadcasting it on the networks, without complaints, but with the applause of their superiors. The messages asking not to film or report to support those who illegally abuse those they believe to be criminals are appalling. Probably many are, but your court case or rehabilitation will not improve without following the law. To make matters more complicated, amnesty is guaranteed for all those in uniform, those who do their job well and others. History shows that aggressive protesters and criminals who have been forgiven by legislators and rulers commit crimes again. Could that not also be the reason for the chaos we are in?

We fought in worse places

five minutes of fame

Hits by policemen and soldiers do not serve to educate or teach, on the contrary, they increase aggression and anger. Many of us are aware of the mafia infiltration and corruption that exists in the FF. AA., Police and city surveillance and traffic agencies. It’s time to start refining by acting with dignity, applying what you’ve learned in your work, continuing to improve to be more efficient, better servants and people. Courage also lies in doing the unpopular: sanctioning those who are incapable of doing their job. Their state salaries are also for the removal – hopefully prosecution – of the corrupt who are in every institution in plain sight and with the patience or complicity of their colleagues and bosses.

It is urgent that leaders disqualify violent and corrupt practices. We have to find creative ways to show our population, so used to abuse, that the way out of violence is not to repeat it. With professionalism and fairness, honesty, despite corruption and unpunished false messiahs, much more can be done. (OR)