Assassination of presidential candidate underscores challenges faced by Ecuador's next leader

Fernando Villavicencio speaking during a campaign event (API via AP)

An Ecuadorian presidential candidate who recently pledged to root out corruption and lock up the country’s “thieves” was fatally shot at a political rally in the capital as the South American country reels from drug-related crime and violence.

Fernando Villavicencio, 59, who was known for speaking up against cartels, was assassinated on Wednesday, less than two weeks before a special presidential election.