The 2006 presidential and congressional elections in Ecuador

A report on the 2006 presidential & congressional elections in Ecuador maintains that the results indicate a definite turn to the left. The surprise victory of young economist Rafael Correa in the runoff presidential election with billionaire Alvaro Noboa raises questions about whether Correa's "Citizens Revolution" will be effective in light of Ecuador's fragmented party system & unstable political alliances in Congress. An overview of Ecuador's volatile political history since the transition to civilian rule in 1979 is followed by a description of the electoral & party systems. Special attention is called to Correa's campaign as a political "outsider" who denounced neo-liberal policies & government corruption while promoting protectionist & nationalist economic policies. The election results confirmed the continuing decline in support for long-standing, traditional parties. Prospects for the future are discussed, especially in relation to challenges faced by President Correa in his attempt to fulfill his promise to convoke a constituent assembly to write a new constitution. Tables, References. J. Lindroth