QUITO, (Reuters) – President Rafael Correa reasserted control over Ecuador yesterday and his disgraced police chief resigned after officers’ protests at spending cuts rattled the left-wing leader, who accused foes of a coup attempt.
Police commander Freddy Martinez took responsibility for a revolt by his officers on Thursday, when Correa was physically attacked and trapped in a hospital for several hours before troops rescued him in a blaze of gunfire. Three people died.
“A commander shown such lack of respect by his subordinates cannot stay in charge,” Martinez said.
Police officers began to return to work yesterday, a new police chief was named and three days of mourning was declared. The army increased security in streets around the presidential palace and soldiers helped guard banks to prevent looting.
Three presidents were ousted by popular protests in the decade before Correa took office in 2007, and for a few hours on Thursday it appeared he might be next. More instability in the oil exporter could dent investor confidence already knocked by Correa’s tough stance with the private sector.
