Aquiles Alvarez, the mayor of Guayaquil, along with his brothers Xavier and Antonio Álvarez Henriques, has formally submitted an appeal to the Specialized Judicial Unit for the Criminal Guarantees concerning the preventive detention order issued on February 11, 2026, in connection with the Goleada case. This legal move aims to reverse the order, highlighting a significant aspect of legal rights in high-profile corruption cases in Ecuador.

The defense attorneys, Ramiro García Falconí and Estefany Alvear Tobar, argue in their document that the judicial resolution against Alvarez and his brothers violates international human rights standards, specifically referencing articles 7.2 and 7.3 of the American Convention on Human Rights. This appeal signifies a broader debate about the balance between legal proceedings for corruption and the protection of individual rights, especially for political figures who often face intense scrutiny.

The preventive detention was requested following an investigation by the Attorney General's Office, which is examining alleged corruption activities involving the mayor and his brothers. This case has significant implications for Ecuador's political landscape, as it raises questions about accountability and the integrity of public officials amidst ongoing efforts to tackle corruption at various governmental levels.