Ecuador's ex-president Lenín Moreno sentenced to 5 years for corruption

A court in Ecuador has handed former President Lenín Moreno a five-year prison sentence for bribery. The conviction stems from allegations that Moreno received bribes to facilitate the financing of the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant, the country's largest. The court also imposed a lifetime ban on him holding public office.

The judges determined that the Chinese company Sinohydro paid millions to a business circle, which then distributed the funds to various entities and individuals, including members of Moreno's family. These events occurred while Moreno was serving as vice president under former President Rafael Correa (2007-2017).

In addition to Moreno, 20 other individuals were implicated, including his wife, daughter, and brothers, who were also found guilty. Moreno's wife and daughter received sentences of two years and six months, while other co-defendants received five-year sentences.

The prosecution's case argued that Moreno used his position as vice president to improperly influence the project and secure benefits through third parties. However, Moreno has denied the charges, stating he never received money from Sinohydro and suggesting the case is a politically motivated fabrication by Correa.

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no ha recibido ni un solo centavo de Sinohydro