Opinion | Rafael Correa’s Shadow and Why Ecuador Can’t Move On

Former Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa has cast a long shadow over the country’s political landscape, making it difficult for the nation to move on and fully embrace change. Correa, who served as president from 2007 to 2017, was a polarizing figure who implemented a number of populist policies that won him significant support among the country’s poor and marginalized populations. However, his tenure was also marked by allegations of corruption, authoritarianism, and a disregard for democratic norms.

Since leaving office, Correa has remained an influential figure in Ecuadorian politics, using his considerable charisma and media savvy to shape the narrative in the country. He has continued to be a vocal critic of his successor, President Lenín Moreno, accusing him of betraying the principles of the leftist movement that he helped to build. Correa’s influence is particularly strong within the ruling party, Alianza PAIS, which he founded and led during his time in office.

One of the key reasons why Ecuador has struggled to move on from the Correa era is the deep divisions within the country’s political landscape. The left remains deeply divided between supporters of Correa and those who have distanced themselves from his legacy, creating a fractured political environment that has made it difficult for any one party or movement to gain a clear mandate for change. This has allowed Correa to continue to exert influence over the political process, undermining efforts to move the country in a new direction.

Another factor that has contributed to Ecuador’s inability to move on from the Correa era is the legacy of corruption and mismanagement that characterized his time in office. The country’s economy suffered under his tenure, with high levels of public debt and a bloated state bureaucracy that drained resources from essential services. The current government has been forced to implement painful austerity measures to address the economic crisis left behind by Correa, further fueling discontent among the population.

Despite these challenges, there are signs that Ecuador is beginning to move on from the Correa era. President Moreno has taken steps to distance himself from his predecessor and has pursued a more pragmatic and moderate approach to governance. The recent election of Guillermo Lasso, a conservative businessman, as president in 2021 represents a rejection of the populist policies of the past and a desire for change among the Ecuadorian electorate.

However, the shadow of Rafael Correa continues to loom large over Ecuadorian politics, hindering efforts to fully break with the past and embrace a new vision for the future. It will take time, effort, and strong leadership to overcome the legacy of the Correa era and build a more stable and prosperous future for the country. Until then, Ecuador will continue to struggle to move on from the divisive and tumultuous legacy of its former president.