Alfredo Palacio is an Ecuadorian politician and physician who served as the President of Ecuador from 2005 to 2007. He took office after the ousting of Lucio Gutiérrez, becoming the country's first president to assume power without being elected. Palacio focused on social reforms and improving healthcare during his presidency. Before his presidency, Palacio was a prominent cardiologist and held various positions in the medical field. He was also involved in politics as a member of the Democratic Left Party. After leaving office, he continued to engage in public health initiatives and remained active in Ecuadorian politics.