Ecuador’s Assembly has approved a bill regarding foreign military bases, which will be further examined before a second debate. The Citizen Revolution party will hold the largest number of seats in the new legislature, and alliances may be formed to counter proposed constitutional changes. Opposition groups have initiated campaigns to defend national sovereignty amid these developments.
Ecuador’s upcoming legislature may soon deliberate on military bases within the nation. A bill permitting foreign military establishments was endorsed by the Assembly in its initial debate and has been referred back to the Occasional Commission for further examination. This Commission is tasked with preparing an additional report to facilitate a second and final debate in the Assembly.
Assemblywoman Gissela Garzón, leading the Commission from the Citizen Revolution (RC) party, announced to the media that an extension request is among the possible options. She emphasized that it is essential for the incoming legislators, assuming office on May 14th, to form a new commission to advance the report for the subsequent legislative debate.
In the new Assembly, the RC party is expected to hold the most seats, though it will lack an outright majority. Nevertheless, potential alliances with the Pachakutik movement could enable them to resist constitutional modifications aimed at allowing foreign military bases to establish themselves in Ecuador.
In October 2024, President Noboa submitted the proposal to the Assembly following a positive ruling from the Constitutional Court regarding modifications to Article 5 of the Constitution, which currently prohibits foreign military bases. Should Parliament approve this initiative through two votes, the populace would subsequently engage in a referendum to deliberate on the matter.
The Coordinator for Peace, Sovereignty, and Non-Interference (CPAZ) has voiced significant opposition to the establishment of foreign military bases. They have initiated a digital campaign advocating for the nation’s sovereignty and right to self-determination, asserting, “Foreign military bases have not only failed to address insecurity but have also exacerbated social inequalities and diverted resources that could be invested in health, education, and development.”
In conjunction with the global movement A World Beyond War, CPAZ commenced a signature campaign on Thursday to present to the National Assembly. The organization highlighted that the Manta Base’s operations from 1999 to 2009 showcased the detrimental effects of foreign military interference, including human rights violations and ineffective strategies against drug trafficking.
In summary, Ecuador’s legislature faces significant decisions concerning the establishment of foreign military bases. The upcoming Assembly will play a critical role in shaping the discourse, with potential alliances that may impact constitutional changes. Ongoing opposition efforts, primarily focusing on national sovereignty, highlight the complex interplay between domestic stability and foreign military influence. As citizens prepare for a possible referendum, the implications of these decisions remain paramount.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
