Feb 18 β€’ 14:20 UTC πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡¨ Ecuador El Universo (ES)

Alleged pressures on Judge Carlos Serrano are at the center of the accusation against Mario Godoy in the political trial to be resolved in the Assembly

Mario Godoy is facing a political trial in Ecuador for alleged undue pressures on Judge Carlos Serrano regarding a money laundering case.

Mario Godoy Naranjo's future will be determined on February 18, 2026, in the National Assembly of Ecuador, where he faces serious allegations of pressuring anti-corruption judge Carlos Serrano Lucero through intermediaries. This pressure allegedly aimed to influence a ruling in a money laundering case against Serbian drug trafficker Jezdimir Srdan. The controversy surrounding Godoy has raised significant concerns regarding judicial independence and the extent of political interference in legal matters.

The political trial against Godoy was initiated by five members of the assembly from the RevoluciΓ³n Ciudadana (RC) party. They focus their accusations on three main allegations, with the pressure on Judge Serrano as the leading charge. The other two allegations include a supposed conflict of interest linked to his wife, Dolores Vintimilla, and additional alleged undue pressures on Judge Nubia Vera. These serious charges highlight the intricate connections between politics and justice in Ecuador, raising questions about the transparency and integrity of judicial processes in the country.

Despite Godoy's resignation from his position earlier today, the political process against him will continue. While he may only face censure rather than dismissal from his role, the case is emblematic of broader issues in Ecuador regarding accountability, governance, and the rule of law. The outcome of this political trial could set important precedents for future cases involving political figures and their influence over the judiciary, making it a pivotal moment in Ecuadorian politics.

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