Ecuador President Survives Assassination Attempt During Protest

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa narrowly escaped an assassination attempt after his convoy was attacked by more than 500 protesters in Canar province. Rocks were hurled at the presidential vehicle, and officials reported signs of bullet damage on the car, though Noboa emerged unharmed.

Five Arrested, Charges Filed
Following the incident, five individuals were detained. Environment and Energy Minister Ines Manzano confirmed that an official report of an assassination attempt has been filed with prosecutors. “Shooting at the president's car, throwing stones, damaging state property — that’s just criminal. We will not allow this,” Manzano said. The presidential office announced that the suspects will face charges of terrorism and attempted assassination.

President Noboa Addresses Public
Hours after the attack, President Noboa spoke to students in Cuenca, about 77 kilometres south of Canar. He urged citizens to reject violence and intimidation, stating: “Do not follow the bad example of those who wanted to stop us from attending this event. Such attacks will not be accepted in the new Ecuador and the law applies to everyone.”

Defence Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo shared images of the damaged vehicle, emphasizing Noboa’s resilience: “Nothing stops this president, which is the best sign that the country won't be stopped either.” Video footage released by the presidency showed rocks smashing windows and a windscreen severely damaged.

Indigenous Groups Condemn Police Response
The national Indigenous federation, CONAIE, criticized what it described as a “brutal police and military action” against protesters. They reported at least five arbitrary detentions, including elderly women, and shared videos showing heavily armed officers escorting Indigenous participants in traditional dress.

CONAIE has been leading a nationwide strike for more than two weeks in protest of the government’s decision to eliminate diesel subsidies, a move they argue disproportionately affects small-scale farmers and Indigenous communities. Protests have involved roadblocks and demonstrations across several provinces.

Controversial Subsidy Reform
President Noboa’s mid-September decree scrapping fuel subsidies has been one of his most contentious policies. The government claims the reform will save $1.1 billion annually, funds that will be redirected to compensation schemes for farmers and transport workers.

To prevent further unrest, the government has declared states of emergency in several regions. Noboa, re-elected in April, has frequently relied on emergency powers and military deployment to maintain law and order amid escalating protests and economic challenges.