ALBA-TCP Welcomes Victory of the Ecuadorian People in Referendum

 

Havana, Nov 17 (ACN) The regional integration bloc “Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America–Peoples' Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP)” today welcomed the victory of the Ecuadorian people at yesterday’s popular plebiscite, in which the No vote emerged as the clear winner.

The Latin American and Caribbean bloc stated in a communique that Ecuadorians, in a resounding manner, reaffirmed “their commitment to national sovereignty, self-determination, and the inalienable right to decide their own destiny.”

The results revealed the will of a nation forged in tune with the character of Marshal Antonio José de Sucre, the courage of Manuela Sáenz, the steadfastness of Eloy Alfaro, and the liberating spirit of Simón Bolívar, “reaffirming itself as a people who inherit the dignity and strength of our independence heroes,” the statement reads as cited by PL wire service.

ALBA-TCP noted that the victory represents a patriotic rebirth that recalls the great moments of the Latin American integration project, demonstrating the continued relevance and historical strength of the purpose of unity and independence of the Patria Grande.

The Alliance praised this expression of national will that “remains firm against those who attempt to undermine its sovereignty and condition its fate. Long live the brave Ecuadorian people!” the statement reads.

With a turnout exceeding 80 percent of the electorate, the Ecuadorian people took to the polls yesterday and voted overwhelmingly for No, in a result that proved unexpected for the government.

With nearly 90 percent of ballots counted, 60.54 percent of the population rejected the setting up of foreign military bases in the country; 58.04 percent voted against reducing the number of assembly members; 53.45 percent opposed public financing of political parties; and 61.58 percent rejected the proposed call for a Constituent Assembly.