Rafael Correa looks set to replace ailing Hugo Chavez as Latin America's main anti-US voice after a crushing general election win.

10:41, UK, Monday 18 February 2013

Ecuador's President Correa reacts after hearing the election results in Quito

Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa has won a third term in power with a resounding general election victory.

Ecuador's President Correa reacts after hearing the election results in Quito

The left-wing leader picked up 58% of the vote compared to the 24% secured by his nearest rival, former banker Guillermo Lasso.

With Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez battling life-threatening cancer, Mr Correa's new four-year term could see him become Latin America's most outspoken critic of Washington.

First elected in 2007, the 49-year-old has won broad support with ambitious social spending programmes.

Ecuador's President Correa addresses his supporters from a balcony of Carondelet Palace in Quito

He spoke to supporters as they celebrated in front of the Carondelet presidential palace in Quito, waving the ruling Alianza Pais party's neon-green flags.

Supporters of Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa celebrate his re-election



Mr Correa has consistently spoken out against the free-market reforms promoted by the United States, instead backing state-driven economies and expanding ties with China.

It is thought the success of his policies will depend on strong commodities prices that underpin generous social spending and he will hope to improve Ecuador's stagnant oil production and spur a nascent mining industry.

In a sign he wants to deepen socialist reforms, Mr Correa's legislative agenda includes a new law that would regulate television and newspaper content, part of his ongoing confrontation with opposition media.


Julieta Moira, an unemployed 46-year-old, was among those celebrating outside the presidential palace

"Our Ecuador needs a president like Rafael Correa," she said.

"He has been strong and has not allowed anyone to intimidate him. I'm very excited, happy and thankful."

A supporter of Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa celebrates his re-election
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