The decision of the Ecuadorian Government to declare the Mexican Ambassador “Persona Non Grata” indicates a sudden wave of tension in diplomatic relations between the two countries. Behind this decision lies recent statements by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO). Obrador’s remarks regarding the assassination of presidential candidate Villavicencio by an armed group during a crowded political rally in Quito on August 9, 2023, have been decisive in the Ecuadorian Government’s decision to take this action.
The Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized that Villavicencio, known for his fight against corruption in the country, is still mourned and that this incident threatens democracy, peace, and security. The diplomatic crisis between the two countries following this event raises important questions about how political dynamics and relationships in the region will unfold.[1]
Mexican President AMLO’s remarks regarding the advancement of Ecuador’s elections further escalate diplomatic tensions. AMLO alleges that Ecuador has advanced its elections “in a very peculiar way,” highlighting uncertainties in the electoral process. He particularly points out situations such as the leading candidate being assassinated and the rise of the second candidate, raising questions about the fairness and freedom of the elections.
These statements reflect the complexity of the political atmosphere in Ecuador and concerns about the legitimacy of the elections. AMLO’s words could further escalate diplomatic tensions between Mexico and Ecuador and influence political dynamics in the region. It may become crucial for Ecuador to instill confidence in the international community regarding the transparency and fairness of the electoral process.
This situation can be considered a significant test for preserving democratic values and ensuring political stability in the region. Ecuador’s diplomatic decisions and AMLO’s statements could impact political relations and the security situation in Latin America. Therefore, it may be necessary for the international community to closely monitor developments in the region and take appropriate measures.[2]
Obrador’s statements have unsettled the Ecuadorian people, especially Villavicencio’s widow, who have already gone through a turbulent and bloody election. Drawing parallels with the violence incidents in the local elections in Mexico, Lopez Obrador implied that the assassination was unfairly associated with a candidate.[3] These comments, deemed inappropriate and intrusive by Ecuadorian authorities, have led to the declaration of the Mexican Ambassador as “persona non grata”.
This diplomatic crisis has resulted in serious tensions in bilateral relations. Ecuador’s stance underscores its determination to uphold the integrity of its democratic processes and sovereignty.
In the statement made by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was stated that the step in question was taken in accordance with the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations. It was also mentioned that this “does not mean the severance of diplomatic relations, but Ambassador Raquel Serur Smeke should leave the country as soon as possible.” No date was specified in the statement for the ambassador’s departure.
Although the Mexican Government initially stated that it would not terminate its diplomatic relations with Ecuador, following the Ecuadorian Police forcibly entering the Mexican Embassy to arrest a former Ecuadorian Vice President, Mexico has decided to terminate its diplomatic relations.[4] The Ecuadorian Police forcibly entered the embassy in the capital, breaking down its doors to arrest Jorge Glas, who had been residing there since December and had applied for political asylum following accusations of corruption and bribery. This raid led to Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announcing the termination of diplomatic relations with Ecuador on the evening of April 5, 2024.
The diplomatic friction between Ecuador and Mexico may not only impact their bilateral relations but also influence the broader political landscape of Latin America. As the region grapples with democratic challenges and geopolitical shifts, the evolving dynamics between Ecuador and Mexico have the potential to yield significant consequences in the future.
Therefore, it is important for other countries in the region and the international community to closely monitor these developments and take appropriate measures. The future of relations between Ecuador and Mexico could be a significant source of uncertainty for regional stability and cooperation. It is crucial for the parties involved to focus on diplomatic solutions and attempt to resolve issues through dialogue during this process.
[1] “Ecuador declares Mexican ambassador persona non grata and says she will leave ‘shortly’”,AP News, https://apnews.com/article/ecuador-mexican-ambassador-diplomatic-rift-f9b18957f71ba8e9688c0e4106b20168 (Access Date: 06.04.2024).
[2] “AMLO invade a Ecuador y lastima a viuda del candidato Villavicencio”,Eleconomista.com, https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/opinion/AMLO-invade-a-Ecuador-y-lastima-a-viuda-del-candidato-Villavicencio-20240405-0019.html, (Access Date: 06.04.2024).
[3] Same source.
[4] “Mexico is breaking diplomatic ties with Ecuador after police stormed the embassy in Quito”, AP News, https://apnews.com/article/mexico-ecuador-diplomatic-crisis-de5aa3a638b54fdfa3474c8ee25ca57e, (Access Date: 06.04.2024).
