Diana Carnero, 29, assassinated after council meeting amidst rising violence in Ecuador

In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves across Ecuador, councilwoman Diana Carnero, aged 29, was brutally executed in broad daylight shortly after concluding a council meeting in the town of Naranjal.

Carnero, who was chairing the meeting and recording a video highlighting the deplorable state of the roads in the area, fell victim to a heinous attack by two assailants on a motorcycle. The assailants, brandishing firearms, mercilessly shot Carnero in the head before fleeing the scene, leaving behind a traumatized crowd of onlookers.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage and fear among the populace, highlighting the escalating violence plaguing Ecuador, particularly in regions affected by drug trafficking gangs. With concerns mounting over the safety and security of citizens, President Daniel Noboa recently declared a state of emergency, authorizing the military to intervene in an effort to combat the rampant criminal activities.

Diana Carnero, a member of the Citizen Revolution Movement, had been elected to the Naranjal city council in February 2023, representing the aspirations of the community she served. Her untimely demise has not only robbed Naranjal of a promising leader but has also underscored the urgent need for decisive action to stem the tide of violence gripping the nation.

Former President Rafael Correa, under whose party Carnero had been elected, expressed his condolences and condemnation of the appalling act on social media, echoing the sentiments of many who mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant.

The tragic assassination of Diana Carnero adds to a string of similar incidents targeting public figures in Ecuador, including councilmen and even a presidential candidate. The brazenness of these attacks serves as a stark reminder of the perilous reality faced by those advocating for change and progress in the country.

As Ecuador grapples with the aftermath of yet another senseless act of violence, calls for justice and security reform resonate louder than ever, with communities mourning the loss of lives and the erosion of trust in their institutions.