Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa came under attack on Tuesday while traveling for an official visit. According to local media reports, protesters pelted stones at his motorcade near Nabón, in the southern province of Cañar.
Security personnel accompanying the president quickly brought the situation under control. A video released by the presidential office shows a crowd throwing stones at the passing motorcade, with one clip revealing shattered windows and a cracked windshield on the presidential vehicle. President Noboa was confirmed to be unharmed.
Environment and Energy Minister Inés Manzano described the incident as an “attempted assassination” and has filed a formal complaint. She said that five individuals involved in the attack have been arrested and will face charges related to terrorism and attempted murder.
Some international outlets have reported that gunshots may have been fired at the convoy, though Reuters said this claim could not be independently verified.
Government Response and Indigenous Federation’s Allegations
Despite the attack, President Noboa continued his official schedule, traveling later that day to Cuenca, where he addressed a group of students. “Anyone who violates the law will face justice. There is no place for violence in the new Ecuador,” Noboa said during his remarks.
Following the incident, Ecuador’s National Indigenous Federation accused security forces of using excessive force against demonstrators. “The police and military acted violently, even against elderly women,” the organization said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). It also demanded the immediate release of the detained protesters, calling their arrests “unlawful.”
Fuel Subsidy Removal Sparks Nationwide Unrest
The unrest stems from the government’s decision in September to remove diesel fuel subsidies, part of an executive order aimed at cutting public spending, preventing fuel smuggling, and redirecting savings to social programs. The administration said the move would save approximately $1.1 billion annually, funds intended to support small farmers and transport workers.
However, the decision has sparked widespread anger and demonstrations across the country. Indigenous groups launched a nationwide strike 16 days ago, organizing road blockades, marches, and rallies demanding the restoration of the subsidy.
This is not the first attack on President Noboa. In September, protesters in Imbabura province reportedly targeted his motorcade during anti-government demonstrations. Several countries, including Costa Rica, Honduras, and Panama, have condemned the latest attack on Noboa and expressed support for Ecuador’s democratic institutions and rule of law.
