Former Ecuadorian President Rodrigo Borja dies at 90 years old

Rodrigo Borja, former president of Ecuador between 1988 and 1992, passed away this Thursday at the age of 90, a former ruler who “will forever be in the memory of Ecuador”, stated the head of state, Daniel Noboa.

“Today this country honors its legacy,” Noboa pointed out on his X social media account. The causes of Borja’s death have not been revealed. He had been publicly retired from the country’s political life for several years and had dedicated himself, especially, to writing the “Political Encyclopedia”, a reference work that gathers and explains concepts, theories, and categories of contemporary political science, written with an academic and divulgative approach. Borja, founder and historical leader of the Democratic Left, a reference in Ecuadorian social democracy, was a staunch defender of Latin American integration and respect for national sovereignty. Although Borja (who was a deputy before becoming president) governed in a complex period characterized by economic difficulties and social tensions, his administration was distinguished by respect for democracy, freedom of expression, and political pluralism. “With deep sorrow, I express my condolences for the passing” of Rodrigo Borja, wrote former President Guillermo Lasso (2021-2023) on X, before noting that Borja “was a man of integrity, a democrat, consistent and a statesman who honored public service and the institutionality of Ecuador.” He expressed his hope that Borja’s legacy and contribution to the history of Ecuador “will remain in the memory of future generations.” The Ecuadorian Academy of Language also extended its note of condolences for the death of the person who was a full member of the corporation.