Jan Topic, an “outsider” without a defined ideology, has jumped from the military to the political arena in Ecuador through a video on Twitter. With 40 years of age, an imposing appearance, and a relaxed image, Topic seeks to win the early elections in August and finish the current presidential term. He presents himself as a successful businessman and constantly repeats that “Ecuador deserves to live without fear.”
Topic has generated sympathy among Ecuadorians, who show their support at rallies with kisses, compliments, and taking pictures with him. He promises to crack down on organized crime and build more prisons, following the style of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, whom he admires.
This candidate of Croatian and French descent, a former paratrooper and sniper in the French Army’s Foreign Legion, has a good chance of making it to the ballot, according to a private pollster. His strategy is based on presenting himself as an anti-establishment figure, being active in social networks, and addressing the issue of insecurity, which is a sensitive concern for Ecuadorians.
Topic aims to curb kidnapping, extortion, homicides, and prison massacres, presenting these measures as the solution to Ecuador’s problems, including the economic crisis. He claims to be the only candidate with the mettle and determination to take action to challenge the illegal organizations.
His military experience stemmed from the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, when he felt the need to fight terrorism. After serving in several international conflicts, Topic decided to enter politics to lead a new fight against crime and corruption in Ecuador.
Despite the criticism he has received due to corruption problems associated with one of his family’s companies, Topic seeks to establish a new leadership that can confront mafias and corruption in the country.
With tattoos on his arms and an image of strength, Topic has become an independent candidate backed by the Alliance for a Country Without Fear, composed of parties of different ideologies. Although he is one of the least known candidates according to the polls, Topic has plans to address economic, social, and security issues, such as providing free food in state schools to prevent children from getting involved with drug-related gangs.
Although he is called the “Rambo of Sambo” due to his residence in an exclusive sector of Ecuador, Topic is aware of the need to have plans for almost everything, learning from his experience in past wars.