Ecuador opposition leader Luisa Gonzalez arrested in campaign finance probe
Ecuadorian opposition leader Luisa Gonzalez has been arrested as part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in the financing of her 2023 presidential campaign.
Local media reported on Thursday that Gonzalez, a prominent left-wing politician and ally of former President Rafael Correa, was detained in Canuto, a rural town in western Ecuador. The arrest is part of the Laberinto case investigation examining inconsistencies in the contributions and the lawful source of the funds during her 2023 presidential campaign.
Campaign Finance Allegations
Seven people are under investigation over alleged irregularities. Authorities are examining the use of a network of entities to channel approximately $500,000 for campaign advertising between May and August 2023. The attorney general's office has alleged that the money may have been transferred improperly without disclosing sources or contributor identities.
I will respond with the dignity of Ecuadorians who owe nothing and who are committed to achieving freedom for Ecuador and a better future for the country.
Political Response
Gonzalez described the accusations as absurd in a post on X, comparing her situation to that of a political prisoner and calling on supporters to unite against what she termed the Noboa dictatorship. Her party has denounced the arrest as politically motivated.
Gabriela Rivadeneira, president of Gonzalez's Citizen Revolution Movement, demanded her immediate release. Former President Correa also rejected the allegations, calling the case persecution. The Citizen Revolution Movement was suspended from participating in upcoming local elections scheduled for November 29.
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