IRI Condemns the Assassination of Fernando Villavicencio

Washington, DC – The International Republican Institute (IRI) released the following statement on the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, a presidential candidate in Ecuador:

“IRI strongly condemns the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio. This shocking development is a reminder that the enemies of democracy will go to extreme lengths to intimidate their opponents and shake the confidence of the people in their right to vote and select their elected representatives. For months, elected officials have been the target of electoral violence feeding the tremendous insecurity across a country working to strengthen democratic institutions and a robust political process.

“Going forward, all parties and candidates must continue to reject violence and carry out a peaceful campaign. The people of Ecuador deserve the right to participate in a free and fair election that will allow voters to choose their leaders without fear or retribution.”