Mayor of coastal Ecuadorian municipality dies

The coastal municipality of Puerto López is mourning the loss of its mayor, Verónica Lucas, who passed away this Friday following health complications. Lucas, a prominent member of the Revolución Ciudadana (RC) party, led by former president Rafael Correa, had taken on the mayoral responsibilities in 2023 under tragic circumstances. Her predecessor, Omar Menéndez, was assassinated just one day before the local elections, a shocking event that underscored the violence plaguing the Manabí province.

Despite the difficult start to her term, Lucas was remembered by the Mayor's office as a woman deeply committed to her community. Her tenure was marked by a courageous approach to leadership and an unwavering dedication to serving Puerto López. The municipality's statement highlighted the "indelible marks of work, delivery, and dedication" she left behind, emphasizing the profound void her departure creates for the town's residents.

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Her departure leaves a deep void in the hearts of the people of Puerto López. She was a woman committed to her people, who bravely faced the challenge of leading and serving her beloved canton, leaving indelible marks of work, dedication, and commitment.

Her passing has resonated beyond Puerto López, with fellow mayors and the Association of Municipalities of Ecuador (AME) extending their solidarity to her family. The RC party also issued a statement, recognizing Lucas as a dedicated public servant and expressing deep sympathy. Luisa González, a former presidential candidate for RC, specifically recalled Lucas's "admirable bravery" in stepping into the role after Menéndez's assassination, acknowledging the profound impact of this loss on the party and the nation. The circumstances surrounding her health have not been detailed, but it was known that she had been experiencing critical and delicate health issues.

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This hits us hard.