Last Wednesday, the National Assembly of Ecuador censured and dismissed Mario Godoy, the president of the Judiciary Council, citing his political responsibility for manifest incompetence in fulfilling his duties. This decision highlights ongoing issues within Ecuador's judiciary and raises concerns about the independence of judges and their ability to perform their roles without external pressures.

Judge Carlos Serrano, known for his anti-corruption stances, condemned the pressures allegedly exerted by Godoy through intermediaries. Following the censure, Serrano expressed hope that judges in the future who speak out against such pressures will no longer feel isolated. He emphasized that they will now have substantial support from honest legal professionals, social leaders, and a vigilant civil society that calls for the protection of their rights and duties.

This development is significant not just for the individuals involved, but also for the broader context of judicial independence and accountability in Ecuador. The censure of Godoy can be interpreted as a step towards reinforcing the rule of law and ensuring that judges can operate without fear of reprisal, thereby bolstering public trust in the legal system.