On Sunday, November 16, Ecuadorians headed to the polls to vote on two high-stakes questions: whether to allow the return of foreign military bases and whether to convene a special assembly to rewrite the constitution. 🇪🇨🗳️
As of November 17, with over 80% of ballots tallied, the foreign bases measure looked set to fail, with nearly 65% voting no. The defeat highlights strong public sentiment for national sovereignty and a cautious stance toward external military presence. ❌
At the same time, a proposal to convene a constitutional rewrite assembly was also rejected, with more than 61% of voters casting ballots against the plan. Reform advocates had argued that Ecuador’s 2008 charter needed updates to address modern challenges. 📜
Young voters and civil society groups played a key role in driving turnout and debate, focusing on questions of identity, security, and political reform. Many took to social media to express relief, while others called for new approaches to tackle economic and social issues without large-scale constitutional change. 💬
As final tallies roll in later this week, Ecuador’s leaders will need to regroup and find fresh ways to address the country’s pressing concerns—from economic recovery to social inclusion—working within the existing constitutional framework. Stay tuned for updates! 🔔
Reference(s):
Measure to allow foreign military bases in Ecuador fails in referendum
cgtn.com
