Sat May 24 20:44:30 UTC 2025: ## Ecuador’s Youngest President Vows Crackdown on Crime After Swearing In

**Quito, Ecuador** – Daniel Noboa, 37, Ecuador’s youngest-ever president and heir to a banana-exporting empire, was sworn into office on Saturday, promising to aggressively combat drug cartels and revitalize the nation’s struggling economy. The right-wing leader, who defeated left-wing candidate Luisa Gonzalez amidst unsubstantiated claims of electoral fraud, outlined a strategy focused on reducing violent crime and strengthening security measures.

During the ceremony at the National Assembly in Quito, Noboa pledged to significantly reduce homicides, stating it would be a “non-negotiable goal.” He emphasized his administration’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking, seizing illegal weapons, and increasing port control.

Ecuador, once a regional haven of stability, has seen a surge in violence in recent years due to the increasing influence of drug cartels exploiting porous borders and weak institutions. Noboa’s response has been a militarized approach, deploying armed forces onto the streets and bolstering security at critical infrastructure locations.

His security strategy draws comparisons to El Salvador’s controversial anti-gang measures, a move met with both praise for its crime reduction efforts and criticism for alleged human rights abuses. Noboa has cited El Salvador, the United States, and Israel as key strategic partners in his security overhaul.

Adding to the controversy, Noboa’s administration has hired Erik Prince, founder of the private military contractor Blackwater, as an advisor to Ecuadorian security forces. This decision has sparked concerns from opposition politicians and human rights advocates, who warn of potential militarization and lack of oversight.

While Noboa claims a 15% drop in violent deaths during 2024, government figures paint a different picture, showing a staggering 58% increase in killings during the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, with a recorded 3,094 deaths. As Noboa embarks on his first full term, he faces the immense challenge of delivering on his promises while navigating concerns surrounding human rights and the escalating violence plaguing the nation.

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