Summary

President Rafael Correa’s government has aimed at radicalising its Citizen Revolution project between 2010 and 2011. Five years after his rise to power, the President still enjoys significant levels of popular support, as voiced in the Constitutional Referendum and Plebiscite held in May 2011. However, three elements underline growing internal tensions. Firstly, the 30S police revolt illustrates how corporations react when they feel their privileges are at risk. Secondly, the use of legal proceedings against journalists and media groups calls for attention on the levels of democratic pluralism. Thirdly, the internal break-up of the government coalition, on account of the exit of certain leaders, hinders Alianza País’ capacity to attain legislative majorities that will in turn support pending Citizen Revolution reforms.