Ecuador's presidential campaign has begun with security concerns after a candidate's assassination; front-runner Luisa González has taken protective measures, and other candidates are addressing insecurity and unemployment ahead of the October 15 election

Thousands of protesters in Quito demanded the resignation of President Daniel Noboa, citing frustration over the ongoing energy and economic crisis, with unions and social movements criticizing the government's "inability" to address key issues

Amid a severe energy crisis with daily 14-hour blackouts, Ecuador’s government extended next week’s holiday to create a five-day break aimed at boosting tourism, despite recent power rationing due to drought affecting the main hydroelectric source

A partial state of emergency was declared in Quito due to rising violence from drug trafficking groups, with the measure lasting 60 days and including a curfew, as the government combats organized crime linked to international cartels