The country's image is horrible. Mahuad hoped the proposed move would curb inflation, bring down interest rates to U.S. levels and spur investment. But polls show that more than 60 percent of Ecuadoreans reject the plan. Indian leaders expressed outrage at the idea, saying it was an affront to national sovereignty and would benefit only the rich. Political analysts say the root of Ecuador's problems is a discredited political class, many of whose members seek public office only to rob and have little interest in improving the lives of the poor.
Polls show that virtually no political leaders here are trusted.
Mendoza said the quick decision to dissolve the junta was made after discussions with U.S. officials, who threatened to cut foreign aid and discourage investment if power was not restored to the elected government. But Solorzano and Vargas opposed the dissolution of the governing junta. Vargas denounced Mendoza for betraying the Indians' drive to form a new system of government that would end widespread corruption and represent the interests of Ecuador's poor. He said Ecuador's 4 million Indians do not recognize Noboa's authority and will continue their struggle throughout the country for radical change. But as he spoke, the 5,000 Indians who had arrived early in the week to try to force the resignations of Mahuad, Congress and the Supreme Court were already beginning to abandon the capital.