A popular presidential candidate was assassinated as he left a political rally on Wednesday night, August 9, less than two weeks before a fiercely contested election. 

Fernando Villavicencio was shot as he departed from a rally in Quito, Ecuador. The assassination occurred at 6:20 pm local time outside a college.

Villavicencio, aged 59, had a background in journalism and was an outspoken critic of corruption. As he was heading to his car post-rally, he was targeted by attackers. His vehicle did not have bullet-resistant windows, and he was shot in the head, as confirmed by his relative, Galo Valencia.

In the aftermath, security forces engaged with the attackers, resulting in the death of the suspected shooter. Six Colombian nationals with ties to organized crime were arrested during nighttime raids.  Nine people, including political figures and law enforcement officers, were injured during the confrontation.

The candidate had recently revealed threats from a known gang leader. He was gaining traction in the election, especially in his stance against organized crime. 

Ecuador’s President, Guillermo Lasso, commented on the assassination, suggesting the role of organized crime. A state of emergency was declared in the country following the incident.

Villavicencio, a right-wing member of the Build Ecuador Movement, had a polling percentage of 7.5. He was known for his criticism of corruption during previous administrations. The assassination adds to a series of violent incidents targeting political figures in Ecuador this year.

The country, once known for its peaceful environment, is witnessing a rise in violent crimes.