Former Ecuadorian Vice President Gets More Prison Time
A court in Ecuador gave former Vice President Jorge Glas 13 more years in prison. He was found guilty of misusing money meant to help rebuild areas after a big earthquake in 2016.
What Happened?
Jorge Glas showed up at the National Court of Justice for his sentencing.
The court said he misused funds that were supposed to help rebuild areas hit hard by the 2016 earthquake. This earthquake killed many people and destroyed towns.
Glas's lawyer said there was no proof that Glas personally gained from this. He called the case political persecution.
He said the ruling damaged Ecuador's justice system. The lawyer argued that Glas did not manage the funds himself. But, the court said he was the main person behind the projects in question.
Glas was Vice President under President Rafael Korea from 2013 to 2017.
In 2023, police arrested Glas in a controversial raid. He had been staying in the Mexican embassy in Quito, where he was granted asylum.
Mexico was not happy about the raid and cut ties with Ecuador.
President Danielle Nooa said Glas was a wanted fugitive for corruption, not for political reasons. She said he did not deserve diplomatic protection.
Some people supported the court's decision. They believed those who commit serious crimes like embezzlement should be punished. Especially when it involves funds meant for earthquake victims.
Glas is already in prison for two other corruption cases.
He was supposed to be released in less than three years. Now, this new sentence means he will stay in prison until 2041.
Former President Korea, who now lives in Belgium after fleeing a corruption conviction, called the sentence unfair. Glas is expected to appeal the decision.
During Korea's time as president, Ecuador spent more on welfare and building projects. But there were also many corruption scandals. This has left the country divided.
The big question: Can Ecuador move forward from its history of corruption?
- More prison time: Glas will be in prison for many more years.
- Political divide: Ecuador remains split over its past leaders and their actions.
- Justice system: The case raises questions about fairness and political influence in the courts.
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