After the arrest of mayor Aquiles Alvarez for alleged organized crime, Guayaquil's council expresses support and criticism of the motives behind his detention, framing it in the current political climate.
On February 10, the councilors of Guayaquil held a press conference following the arrest of mayor Aquiles Alvarez during an operation related to the Goleada case, which involves allegations of organized crime tied to money laundering and tax evasion. Vice mayor Tatiana Coronel led the conference, emphasizing their support for Alvarez and suggesting that the circumstances of his arrest should be viewed in the context of the current political situation.
Coronel argued that Alvarez represents a significant opposition voice and suggested that his detention is not coincidental but rather a politically motivated action. She highlighted that Alvarez has been vocal against corruption and has defended the autonomy of local governments, positioning his arrest as a retaliatory move that reflects broader consequences of his political stance.
In questioning the justice system's actions, Coronel indicated that such a situation activates a new judicial front that could have implications for local governance and political discourse. The arrest raises concerns about judicial independence and the potential for politically motivated legal actions against elected officials, impacting the political landscape in Ecuador.
