Gonzalo Callejas took office as governor of Tungurahua on Friday, August 7, promising a management focused on public security and healthcare results.
President Daniel Noboa Azin appointed Callejas through Executive Decree 466 on August 4. Callejas previously resigned from his seat on the Ambato Cantonal Council on Tuesday, July 21.
Following the appointment, Callejas held transition meetings with outgoing governor Daniela Llerena to inspect provincial administration. He also received protocol greetings from officials and authorities across Ambato and Tungurahua.
Callejas outlined his administration details on Friday morning alongside Colonel Jimmy Viteri, commander of the National Police Subzone in Tungurahua, and Jaime Palacios, political chief of Ambato. He stated that his administration would press state ministries to deliver clear results rather than focusing only on general management.
He identified public security as a top priority to restore peace of mind so citizens can work, live together, and go out safely. He noted that creating a safer and more productive province requires cooperation from every sector alongside the state.
National support and healthcare priorities
Callejas said President Noboa provided a direct line to communicate local needs to the national government. He explained that local entities will submit unified proposals so the president knows state funds invested in Tungurahua will solve problems and improve social indicators.
To strengthen security, Callejas will request support and emergency personnel from the national government in coordination with local agencies. He said authorities cannot allow security threats to overflow in Ambato and Tungurahua.
On healthcare, Callejas called on medical institutions to improve patient care without promising magic solutions. He promised to conduct field work to listen to citizens directly, process information, and coordinate relief with state institutions.
Callejas urged all authorities and institutions to end division and work together toward common goals. He plans to meet with municipal leaders from all nine cantons of the province in the coming days.
