Ecuadorians Decide on Foreign Military Bases and Constitutional Change

Ecuadorians faced a big choice on Sunday. They voted in a referendum. The vote was about two main things. First, allowing foreign countries to set up military bases in Ecuador. Second, starting the process to create a new constitution. Crime has been a big problem in Ecuador. Drug gangs are fighting for control. They target important people like politicians and journalists. These gangs are powerful because Ecuador is a key route for cocaine. The drugs come from neighboring countries like Colombia and Peru. The referendum had four parts. One part was about changing the constitution to allow foreign military bases. Another part was about starting the process for a new constitution. The other parts were about specific policies. The vote was close. It was too early to know the results. But people were hopeful. They wanted change. They wanted to feel safe again. The U. S. has been helping Ecuador fight crime. They have provided aid and support. But some people worry about foreign influence. They want to make sure Ecuador remains independent. The vote was important. It showed that people care about their country. They want to make it better. They want to feel safe and secure.