The article expresses frustration over the temporary leave granted to Aquiles Alvarez, the mayor of Guayaquil, Ecuador, describing it as unwarranted. It argues that the city, which plays a significant role in the country's commerce and industry, has been without effective leadership for several years, particularly since former mayor Jaime Nebot stepped down in 2018. This lack of competent stewardship has led to deteriorating conditions in the city, with unsafe streets and severe infrastructural issues becoming increasingly apparent.

The piece emphasizes that the current government, particularly the council members, have a civic duty to address the prevailing problems rather than allowing the mayor to take an extended break amidst legal challenges. The author asserts that the issues surrounding Alvarez's legal situation cannot be resolved in just 30 days, suggesting that a solution will require longer-term planning and commitment to effective governance.

Ultimately, the author calls for a full-time leader who can tackle the city's pressing challenges and set a vision for its future, rather than permitting temporary solutions that provide little genuine improvement for the residents of Guayaquil. This plea underscores the broader implications for the city's governance and the urgent need for proactive leadership to reverse the decline experienced in recent years.