The hearing against Javier Córdova, former minister under Presidents Rafael Correa and Lenín Moreno, was scheduled to be held at the National Court of Justice (CNJ) but was suspended upon the request of his defense attorney. The defense argued that there was an irregularity in the formation of the Trial Court that was to preside over the case, as instead of the designated judge Mercedes Caicedo, Judge Olavo Hernández appeared during the session. This change in the court's composition led to the postponement of the trial, highlighting procedural issues that can significantly impact judicial proceedings.

The case against Córdova, who was summoned to trial for illicit enrichment, was initiated by the current president of the CNJ, Marco Rodríguez, on August 5, 2024. During the preparatory hearing, the prosecution presented 110 pieces of evidentiary material including expert testimonies, underscoring the seriousness of the charges against the former official. The accusations stem from allegations of financial misconduct during his time in office, which can cast a broader shadow on the governance under the administrations he served.

This incident not only delays the judicial process but raises questions about the integrity of the judicial system and the potential for political influence obfuscating legal proceedings in Ecuador. As the legal battle advances, it remains to be seen how this case will affect public perception of corruption within the government and the accountability of past officials.