Ecuador lawmaker says there is 'compelling' graft evidence against President Lasso

FILE PHOTO: Ecuador's President Guillermo Lasso looks as he meets people affected by a landslide in Alausi, Ecuador March 27, 2023. REUTERS/Karen Toro/File Photo

QUITO (Reuters) -Ecuador's opposition has compelling evidence to present against President Guillermo Lasso at his impeachment hearing, a lawmaker said on Thursday, including irregularities in a crude oil shipping contract, accusations Lasso vehemently denied in a televised message.

The Constitutional Court gave the green light on Wednesday night to begin impeachment hearings for alleged embezzlement in the National Assembly, where Lasso does not have a majority and has clashed with legislators.