Over 53,500 applications registered for 2027 Sectional Elections

Ecuador's National Electoral Council (CNE) has received 53,534 preliminary applications for the 2027 sectional elections, signaling a significant number of individuals seeking to participate in local governance. The total includes 27,517 principal candidates and 26,017 alternates vying for positions across the country.

The breakdown reveals that the position of rural parish council member attracted the most interest, with 36,678 applications. Municipal council positions also saw substantial numbers, including urban councilors (7,752 applications) and rural councilors (4,772 applications). Additionally, 2,832 applications were submitted for urban council seats by constituency.

For executive roles, 1,348 principal candidates applied for cantonal mayorships nationwide. Prefect and vice-prefect positions received 152 principal formula applications, which do not include alternate candidate slots. The CNE's digital platform has closed its intake, and the 24 Provincial Electoral Boards will now meticulously examine each application to ensure strict adherence to legal requirements and electoral ineligibility rules.

Political organizations have a legal window to file objections or appeals with the Electoral Contentious Tribunal (TCE). A candidacy is only considered officially registered once its qualification resolution becomes legally firm, with no pending administrative or legal processes. The final list of qualified candidates, which will appear on ballots, is scheduled for proclamation on November 9.