Luzmila Abad | |
Birth Date: | 4 September 1978 |
Birth Place: | Luis Cordero, Santiago de Méndez Canton |
Nationality: | Ecuador |
Occupation: | politician |
Luzmila Mercedes Abad Morocho (Luis Cordero, September 4, 1978) is an activist and Ecuadorian politician. Recognized for her prominent role in the network of Amazonian women and her foundational contribution to the Plurinational Pachakutik Movement, currently serving as an assembly member for the province of Morona Santiago.[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Abad, born on September 4, 1978, in Luis Cordero, is the eldest daughter of Segundo José Abad and Delia Morocho. Although her parents resided in Chupianza, where she was conceived, public health reasons led to her birth taking place in "Cañar – El Cordero." Her birth certificate reflects the birthplace in El Cordero, but her identity is linked to Chupianza, an integral part of the Santiago de Méndez canton.
She encouraged women to claim their rights since her motherhood at the age of 15. Her upbringing was imbued with the Shuar-Achuar culture.
Her participation was prominent in the release of Pepe Acacho during the government of Rafael Correa. She facilitated the first-time registration of a Shuar, Marcelino Chumpi, as prefect in the prefecture of Morona Santiago. Additionally, she played a significant role in the election of Tiyua Uyunkar as the first Achuar prefect. She was involved in the defense of citizens' rights after the death of Bosco Wisum, leader of the Shuar nation. As an activist, she advocated for the promotion and protection of children's rights, contributing to improving the living conditions of children in the region. Currently, she leads the network of Amazonian women.[6] [7]
Abad studied at Julio Matovelle School in Chupiantza Chico and at the Logroño agricultural technical school, obtaining her high school diploma in agriculture. She started her professional career in 2005 as a political lieutenant in Patuca and, in 2007, served as a secretary in the prefecture of Morona Santiago during the tenure of Jaime Mejía.
Despite facing interruptions, her educational pursuit included studies at ESPE Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas, Instituto Intel Com, and later a bachelor's degree in business administration, currently in its final phase.
With 28 years of experience in Pachakutik and 16 years in the provincial government of Morona Santiago, Abad played key roles, including assistant, communicator, and secretary. Her experience covered fundamental areas of governmental administration and oversight, standing out as an expert in citizen participation.[8]
She resigned from her position on June 7, 2023, motivated by the cross-death decree issued by President Guillermo Lasso, to participate in the general elections for the Assembly.[9] [10] [11] Henry Kronfle became the President of the re-formed National Assembly of 137 representatives in 2023. At his election there were only nine members who voted against him including Rosa Baltazar, Adriana García, Lucia Posso, Fabiola Sanmartín, Andrea Rivadeneira, Carmen Tiupul, Mariana Yumbay and Abad.[12]