Ecuadorian justice system finds former president Lenín Moreno guilty in corruption case
The National Court of Justice of Ecuador has issued a historic ruling by finding former President Lenín Moreno guilty of the crime of bribery. The sentence stems from his involvement in a bribery network linked to the construction of the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant, a strategic project executed by the Chinese state-owned firm Sinohydro during the period in which Moreno served as the country’s vice president.
The court determined that the former president used his position of power to favor the Asian company, obtaining economic benefits indirectly through third parties. Along with Moreno, his wife, Rocío González, and his daughter, Irina Moreno, were also found guilty as accomplices in this corruption scheme.
Financial plot details
According to investigations by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Sinohydro allegedly disbursed approximately 76 million dollars in bribes to secure contracts and benefits. Of that total figure, it is estimated that the former head of state’s family circle received more than one million dollars, of which about 660,000 were traced directly to Moreno and his inner circle, including the acquisition of real estate and furniture.
- The Prosecutor’s Office requested a sentence of six years and six months in prison for those involved.
- A permanent disqualification from holding public office is being sought.
- The court is also considering financial fines and full reparation to the Ecuadorian State.
I have not received a single cent from Sinohydro.
Lenín Moreno, former president of Ecuador.
Moreno’s defense
For his part, Lenín Moreno has categorically rejected the accusations against him. During the hearings, the former president appeared in person to defend his administration, arguing that he had no interference in the awarding of the hydroelectric project. Likewise, he described the judicial process as a maneuver of political persecution motivated by old conflicts with the administration of Rafael Correa, under whose mandate the agreements with the Chinese company were originally signed.
This case, known as the Sinohydro case, came to light in 2019 following investigations into financial operations linked to accounts in tax havens and properties abroad. Currently, the court is in the stage of individualizing responsibilities to proceed with the imposition of final sentences.
