<h1>Ecuador Presidential Race Heads to Runoff: Noboa vs. Gonz'alez Amid Crime and Drug Trafficking Concerns</h1> Ecuador's presidential election is headed for a runoff between conservative incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist lawyer Luisa Gonz'alez, after neither secured an outright win. The election is influenced by the country's severe crime issues, largely due to drug trafficking from neighboring countries. Noboa's presidency saw a reduction in homicide rates, but other crimes like extortion have increased. Voter turnout was high, with over 83% participation. Noboa, with a background in business and politics, faces scrutiny for his heavy-handed crime policies. Gonz'alez, a former lawmaker and prot'eg'e of ex-President Rafael Correa, promises to tackle crime and improve the economy.