Municipal political and corruption allegations in Ecuador

In Ecuador, political tensions and corruption allegations have surfaced across multiple municipalities. In Quito, Mayor Pabel Muñoz faces a criminal complaint filed by former CPCCS member Esteban Guarderas, who alleges a scheme of mandatory “tithes” or contributions collected from officials at the Metropolitan Public Passenger Transport Company to finance Muñoz’s reelection campaign. This includes allegations of extortion and bribery submitted to the Prosecutor's Office.

In the city of Quito, mayoral candidate Harold Burbano of the Acción Democrática Nacional (ADN) led a demonstration at the Municipal Palace, promising to “disinfect” the mayor's office and eradicate institutional malpractice.

In Azuay, Governor Xavier Bermúdez criticized the Cuenca City Council for failing to oversee alleged irregularities from former mayor Cristian Zamora’s administration. Bermúdez cited concerns regarding the use of public funds for mass events, specifically a $270,000 concert expense, and irregular purchases involving the Iluminar Foundation and EMOV EP radars. He announced the preparation of a report for the Comptroller General and the Prosecutor's Office.