Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso Denies Embezzlement Charges Amid Impeachment Trial

Background

Ecuador is currently facing a tumultuous period with protests calling for the ouster of President Guillermo Lasso and concerns about gang violence sweeping through major towns. The president is currently on trial in the National Assembly, accused of turning a blind eye to embezzlement schemes involving contracts between a state-owned oil transport company and a tanker company.

Trial Details

• The trial comes after opposition lawmakers voted in favor of the trial, but Lasso still has a chance to avoid removal from office if two-thirds of the 137 lawmakers vote against him.
• In his defense, Lasso claims that the alleged embezzlement occurred before he took office and denies any wrongdoing.
• He also accused his opponents of creating a “fictitious situation” and trying to destroy democracy itself.

National Assembly’s Decision

Despite Lasso’s denials, the National Assembly has moved forward with the trial. The trial is expected to conclude with a vote on whether Lasso should stay in office or be ousted. The trial could extend over several days, with the impeachment vote not expected until the weekend.

Ecuador’s “Muerte Cruzada” Clause

President Lasso has threatened to invoke Ecuador’s “muerte cruzada” clause, which gives the president the power to dissolve the National Assembly but also forces him to call fresh general elections within six months. While this option has never been used before, Lasso told the Financial Times he would rather use it than risk being deposed.

Reactions and Concerns

• Indigenous groups have warned of mass protests if Lasso dissolves the National Assembly.
• The clause can only be invoked before the final vote takes place, so President Lasso will be closely watching lawmakers’ reactions to gauge support or opposition during the trial.

Conclusion

The fate of Ecuador’s President Guillermo Lasso hangs in the balance as he faces an impeachment trial in the National Assembly. While Lasso has denied any wrongdoing and accused his opponents of creating a “fictitious situation”, the National Assembly is moving forward with the trial, which could have significant implications for the country.