Ecuador's presidential elections will proceed to a run-off vote in mid-April after a close first round between incumbent Daniel Noboa and left-wing candidate Luisa González. Noboa, who has been president since 2023, narrowly led with 44.3% against González's 43.8%. The elections occur amid rising gang violence linked to cocaine trafficking. Noboa's presidency has faced criticism for inadequate crime response despite a slight decrease in murder rates. González aims to address crime and improve the economy. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)