political12d ago
Ecuador Approves Law Letting Military Aid Police Without Emergency
On 25 August 2026, the Ecuadorian National Assembly passed an organic law allowing the Armed Forces to support the National Police in combating organized crime without the requirement of a state of emergency. The measure, which received 83 votes in favor and 63 against, establishes a regulatory framework for Article 158 of the Constitution as mandated by a 2024 referendum. Under the law, military assistance is permitted for specific crimes including drug trafficking, terrorism, and prison crises, provided the police's operational capacity is demonstrated to be overwhelmed. The bill now proceeds to President Daniel Noboa for his signature or veto.