On this day of June 13, 2024, the controversy surrounding the election of the governor of Ecuador continues to spark debates and twists and turns. An appeal was filed before the Council of State to challenge the ruling of the Court of Appeal of Ecuador confirming Bobo Boloko Bolumbu’s victory. The unsuccessful candidates are mobilizing to assert their point of view, arguing that the re-election of Bobo Boloko for a third term goes against article 198 of the Constitution which limits the mandate of a governor to only one renewable term. .
One of the protagonists in this affair, Joseph Bayoko, contacted the Head of State to ask to suspend the inauguration of Bobo Boloko pending a court decision. According to him, the decision of the Court of Appeal of Ecuador is questionable and constitutes a flagrant violation of the fundamental law of the country. He firmly emphasizes that respect for the Constitution is essential in a rule of law, and that the prerogatives of justice must be respected without political interference.
In this legal battle, the legitimacy of Bobo Boloko is called into question, despite his assertions of support from the Secretary General of the Udps. Opposing candidates insist that the governor’s term limits must be respected, and that no exceptions can be tolerated. They express their confidence in the impartiality of the Constitutional Court and the Council of State to ensure the triumph of law and correct this alleged error which would taint the democratic process.
Ultimately, this case demonstrates the important issues linked to the strict application of laws and the Constitution in a country in the process of democratic construction. The final decision of the Council of State will be closely scrutinized, as it could have major repercussions on governance and the legitimacy of elected representatives. Let us therefore impatiently await the outcome of this political saga which has Ecuador in suspense and raises questions about the country’s institutional stability.