Former Ecuador President Bucaram Sentenced for Corruption

Abdalá Bucaram, the former President of Ecuador, has been sentenced to nine years and four months in prison for his involvement in a corruption case concerning COVID-19 medical supplies. Bucaram, who served as president from 1996 until his removal in 1997, insists on his innocence, stating, “I swear I am innocent,” and plans to appeal the court's decision.

The case, which dates back to 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis, involved accusations that Bucaram, his son Jacobo, and others engaged in the irregular commercialization of approximately 21,000 rapid COVID-19 tests and other medical supplies. Prosecutors claimed these supplies were improperly moved to Bucaram's home and sold without invoices or tax payments.

The court found both Bucaram and his son guilty of organized criminal activity. Bucaram has challenged the impartiality of the presiding judge and argues that the transactions were legitimate private agreements.

The conviction is subject to appeal, and Bucaram aims to overturn the verdict.