In a recent session of the Guayaquil City Council, several council members, including Arturo Escala, Emely Vera, and Ana Chóez, voiced strong opposition to a proposed reform to the Organic Code of Territorial Organization, Autonomy, and Decentralization (Cootad). They argued that the reform could significantly undermine the autonomy of the municipality and adversely affect various social programs that rely on local funding. Emely Vera highlighted the potential loss of over $80 million in budget resources, which directly impact social initiatives designed to support low-income residents.

Vera specifically noted that the reform threatens to cut funding for essential social programs in Guayaquil, emphasizing that these resources are crucial for the welfare of the community. She stated, "These are our resources; we have all contributed to the city, and it is not just about cement works." This underscores a significant concern among council members that the reform could jeopardize the city’s social safety net and development initiatives, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The display of posters reading "No to the GAD Law" during the council session served as a visual protest against the proposed changes. Vera's remarks were pointed as she criticized the government for not supporting municipal autonomy and cautioned about the negative impacts the reform could have on the social fabric of Guayaquil. The council's resistance reflects broader tensions between local governance and central authority in Ecuador, as many officials advocate for the preservation of municipal rights and resources.