Ecuador’s Incoming President Appoints New Finance Chief, According to Reuters

Ecuador’s President-elect Daniel Noboa announced the appointment of Sariha Moya as his new economy and finance minister on Monday. This decision comes as the incoming government prepares to assume office next month following Noboa’s tight election victory in October.

At 35, Noboa is focused on revitalizing Ecuador’s struggling economy, creating job opportunities, and tackling the rising crime rates attributed to organized crime.

Moya, who has been a senior figure in the interior ministry since 2017 and most recently served as the coordinator for planning and strategic management, is one of six ministers confirmed to date. Her role has involved overseeing investment projects.

The announcement coincided with Noboa’s visit to the United States, where he has been engaging with officials, business leaders, and investors, as reported by his press office.

Noboa has committed to forming a cabinet with an equal representation of women and men. He faces the daunting task of addressing an economy that has been weak since the COVID-19 pandemic, a situation that has prompted many Ecuadorians to seek opportunities abroad.

Having been elected in a special election after former President Guillermo Lasso dissolved Congress to avoid a removal vote, Noboa will only have 17 months in office, with his term set to conclude in May 2025. In the run-off election, he secured approximately 52% of the vote, defeating leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez, who garnered 48% support.