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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 28, 2026Miami-Dade

Ecuadorian court delivers verdict in corruption case against former President Lenín Moreno

A National Court of Justice tribunal is reading the verdict in a corruption trial where former President Lenín Moreno is accused of accepting bribes from the Chinese firm Sinohydro. Moreno, along with several family members, faces allegations of receiving illicit payments between 2008 and 2018 related to the construction of the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant.

corruptionjudiciarypoliticsEcuador
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Why It Matters

The outcome of this trial determines the legal status and potential imprisonment of a former head of state, impacting public trust and the accountability of high-level officials in Ecuador.

Key Facts

  • The prosecution has requested a six-year and six-month prison sentence for Lenín Moreno.
  • Due to his age (73) and physical disability, Moreno would be eligible for house arrest if convicted.
  • The alleged corruption network operated between 2008 and 2018.
  • Prosecutors allege bribes equal to 4% of the construction value of the Coca Codo Sinclair plant were paid.
  • The Coca Codo Sinclair project cost approximately 2 billion dollars and was completed in 2016.
  • Moreno is accused alongside his wife, daughter, two brothers, and a brother-in-law.
  • Moreno returned to Ecuador in May after living in Paraguay for five years to face the trial.
  • The hydroelectric plant has been subject to criticism regarding structural failures.

Who's Mentioned

organizationSinohydro“Chinese company accused of paying bribes for a hydroelectric project.”otherCoca Codo Sinclair“Hydroelectric plant project at the center of the corruption allegations.”personRafael Correa“Former President of Ecuador (2007-2017).”personJorge Glas“Former Vice President currently serving a prison sentence for corruption.”organizationNational Court of Justice“The judicial body presiding over the trial.”personLenín Moreno“Former President of Ecuador (2017-2021) accused of corruption.”