Monika Koniuszek Silva, a Polish activist based in Ecuador for over a decade, was discovered dead in her Montanita home on June 8, prompting calls for a transparent investigation.
Discovery of the Scene
Monika Koniuszek Silva was found dead by her fiancé on Monday, June 8, at her home in the El Tigrillo neighborhood of Montanita, located in the northern province of Santa Elena. According to the Ecuadorian portal Extra, her body was found on the floor, and authorities have secured her mobile phone.
Neighbors reported seeing the Polish woman dropping her daughters off at school earlier that same day. Her children are currently under the care of a friend of the deceased. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unknown.
Official Investigation and Speculation
The prosecutor’s office and Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed that an investigation into the cause of death has been launched. Local media reported that the minister suggested the possibility of suicide, though no evidence supports this claim. The activist’s relatives and associates have dismissed this theory.
Activism and Threats
Living in Ecuador for over ten years, Koniuszek Silva operated a hostel and managed the La Integridad foundation, which focused on environmental and infrastructure improvements in Montanita. Her work involved intervening in cases of alleged corruption, illegal construction, and deforestation, as well as reporting on illegal land trafficking.
Reports indicate that she had stated multiple times that she was receiving threats due to her activities. Alfonso Ortiz, chairman of the Santa Elena civic council, has appealed to police and government authorities to conduct a thorough and meticulous investigation into her death.
International Response
The European Union Delegation in Ecuador issued a statement expressing concern and offering condolences to her family. The delegation called on authorities to conduct a “prompt, independent, and transparent investigation.”
The EU highlighted the importance of ensuring the protection of human rights defenders, journalists, and activists, while creating safe conditions for civil society engagement in Ecuador.