Ecuador's VP Temporarily Suspended Amid Political Turmoil

Ecuador's Vice President Veronica Abad has been temporarily suspended by the Labor Ministry. Accused of a serious disciplinary offense, Abad's suspension comes amid tense relations with President Noboa and potential impacts on the upcoming elections. Her appeal against this decision has been unsuccessful.

Ecuador's Labor Ministry has suspended Vice President Veronica Abad just three months ahead of next year's elections. The suspension, made public on Saturday, stems from Abad's alleged failure to comply with an order to leave Israel and travel to Turkey due to security concerns amid the Gaza conflict.

Abad, who also serves as Ecuador's ambassador to Israel, faces suspension until April without pay, a decision that has sparked controversy and accusations of abuse of power. Her legal representative, Damian Armijos, reports that an appeal against the decision was unsuccessful.

The timing of the suspension is significant, as President Daniel Noboa seeks re-election. Local laws necessitate that the vice president remains in office for the electoral process to proceed uninterrupted, highlighting the political implications of Abad's temporary removal.

(With inputs from agencies.)