Background on Rafael Correa and His Relevance
Rafael Vicente Correa Delgado served as the President of Ecuador from 2007 to 2017. Known for his controversial policies and leadership style, Correa played a significant role in transforming Ecuador’s political landscape. His criticism of the current government reflects his ongoing influence and interest in Ecuadorian politics.
Who is ‘Fito’ and His Criminal History
Adolfo Macías Villamar, better known as ‘Fito,’ is the leader of Los Choneros, a notorious criminal organization in Ecuador. The group has been linked to various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, organized crime, and multiple counts of homicide.
- ‘Fito’ was serving a 34-year prison sentence for his involvement in these criminal activities.
- In April 2024, the New York Federal Prosecutor’s office filed seven charges against ‘Fito’ related to arms trafficking and conspiring to transport cocaine into the United States.
Government’s Response and Correa’s Criticism
After ‘Fito’ was recaptured following over a year on the run, the Ecuadorian government organized what Correa deemed a “national party” to celebrate the arrest. Correa criticized this response through a message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Wanting to make almost a national celebration out of recapturing a criminal who should never have escaped demonstrates the degree of mediocrity in the government and how low it has fallen.”
Correa further criticized members of President Daniel Noboa’s cabinet for posing with ‘Fito,’ specifically mentioning Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo and Interior Minister John Reimberg. He stated, “Even taking photos, bestowing upon the criminal a relevance they should never give him, reveals that truly mediocre individuals are governing us.”
Details of ‘Fito’s’ Arrest
Authorities apprehended ‘Fito’ in Manta, a town in the Manabí province on Ecuador’s western coast. He had evaded capture since January 2024, after escaping from a maximum-security prison in Guayaquil. The arrest took place in a bunker in his hometown.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Rafael Correa? Rafael Correa served as the President of Ecuador from 2007 to 2017, known for his transformative yet controversial policies.
- Who is ‘Fito’? Adolfo Macías Villamar, leader of the criminal organization Los Choneros in Ecuador, involved in drug trafficking, organized crime, and homicide.
- What charges were filed against ‘Fito’ in the US? Seven counts related to arms trafficking and conspiring to transport cocaine into the United States.
- What was Correa’s criticism of the government? Correa criticized the government for organizing what he called a “national party” to celebrate ‘Fito’s’ recapture, deeming it a sign of their mediocrity.
