The crisis currently suffocating Quito is not a spontaneous phenomenon; it stems from a long-standing administrative degradation that accelerated after the administrations of Roque Sevilla and Paco Moncayo ended. This period, once remembered for its technical planning and long-term city vision prioritizing efficiency over bureaucracy, has given way to a Metropolitan District viewed as a political spoils system. The decline is palpable, shifting from a city that led modernization processes to one where infrastructure is failing, waste collection is inadequate despite rising fees, and insecurity has become normalized amidst the apathy of control agents and traffic personnel who have neglected their duties.

The decline of Quito can be linked to an electoral system that enables mayors to assume office with as little as 25% public support, lacking the political capital required to enforce order or leadership effectively. This has led to widespread discontent among residents who witness their city’s transformation into a chaotic landscape lacking basic services. The implications of this crisis resonate not only within the city but also reflect a broader issue of governance in Ecuador, where increasingly fragmented political alliances and weak municipal oversight fail to address the pressing challenges faced by urban centers.

The article highlights a critical juncture for Quito, urging a reassessment of governance models to evade further deterioration. To restore effectiveness, it suggests the need for a return to competent administration, public accountability, and infrastructure development. If current trends persist, Quito risks becoming emblematic of a broader national crisis in urban management, which could hinder sustainable growth and citizen well-being in the future.