Latacunga Mama Negra festival organizers deny character designations

The selection process for the 2026-2027 Mama Negra festival in Latacunga, Ecuador, has generated conflicting reports regarding the designation of its central figures. While some reports indicate that Marcelo Mogro Gallardo has been named as the Mama Negra for 2026, the Permanent Organizing Committee of the Fiesta de la Capitanía has issued a formal denial regarding recent media claims.

The Committee clarified that the official designation process only formally began on August 31, 2026, and is currently in the deliberation stage. They stated that no official contact has been made with citizens to consult them about assuming the main role, describing circulating versions of the news as “false or out of context.”

The Committee emphasized that the official schedule is being followed according to established regulations and reminded the public that the only authorized spokesperson is the Committee president and Mayor of Latacunga, Fabricio Tinajero.