Loja's Mayor Franco Quezada Faces Removal Over Budget Violations

Loja, Ecuador - In a significant turn of events, the Cantonal Council of Loja has voted to remove Mayor Franco Quezada from his position. The decision, reached on June 26, 2025, saw a decisive majority with nine out of eleven council members in favor of the motion to oust Quezada, who has held the office since 2021. Notably, he has been informed of the decision, but as it stands, he will continue in his role for the time being. The mayor’s potential for legal recourse remains intact, as he can appeal to the Tribunal Contencioso Electoral (TCE) within three working days, enabling him to retain his functions, at least temporarily.

According to Primicias, the underlying reasons for Quezada’s removal center around alleged violations of the Código Orgánico de Organización Territorial, Autonomía y Descentralización (Cootad). Specifically, Article 333, literal C, was referenced in the council’s vote. The motion to remove him emerged from complaints submitted by Ramiro Delgado on May 26, indicating ongoing unrest regarding how municipal resources are managed.

Allegations and Findings

A special committee was formed to examine documents and gather evidence against Quezada. This commission concluded that the mayor had failed to adhere to the resolution CML-017-2024, which mandates transparency and effective management of the municipal budget. It was also highlighted that his handling of budgetary transfers for solid waste management contravened Articles 257 and 258 of the Cootad. On the council, those favoring the removal included Pablo Carrión, Miguel Castillo, and Iván Ludeña, among others, showcasing a broad coalition against Quezada.

In response, Quezada has labeled the entire process as a „political show,“ asserting his position and affirming his intention to serve as mayor until May 24, 2027. This dramatic situation underscores the challenges of governance in Ecuador, a country known for its dynamic political landscape.

Context of Governance in Ecuador

Ecuador operates under a unitary presidential republic, as outlined by its constitution adopted in 2008. The governance framework consists of three branches: Executive, Legislative, and Judicial, ensuring a separation of powers to prevent abuses. This system aims to protect civil rights, promote accountability, and enhance social justice, with provisions for transparency at all governmental levels, as explained by Generis Online.

Recent years have seen Ecuador grappling with political instability and corruption, alongside pressing social issues. The current president, Daniel Noboa, continues to navigate these complexities while advocating for reforms that promise to enhance transparency and public trust in governance. The situation in Loja serves as a microcosm of these challenges, highlighting how local governance can reflect broader national issues.

Moving forward, how will the dynamics within the Cantonal Council play out? Will Quezada’s appeal bring about a different outcome, or will this vote mark the beginning of a new chapter in Loja’s political narrative? Time will tell, but for now, the attention remains firmly on the council and its next steps.