“Those who had the votes win,” National Electoral Council Vice President Enrique Pita said on February 7, referring to the preliminary results of the regional elections on February 5, 2023. More than 13 million registered people had the power to vote on Sunday and his decision deserves respect of all Ecuadorians. And the elected authorities support them to work for the benefit of their communities.

In the three days after the election, there was time for celebrations, congratulation, but also recognition of defeat in Quito and Guayaquil.

From the winners and opponents, in the case of the two largest cities in the country, mature statements were heard. The campaign is behind us and it is time to prepare the beginning of the management that in the case of Guayaquil raises expectations because it puts an end to the socially Christian model that has guided the city’s helmsman for 31 years.

In August 1992, former President León Febres-Cordero began his first term as mayor of Guayaquil. After two periods, he handed over the Olmedo chair to his co-creator Jaime Nebot, who remained in that position from 2000 to 2019. The physical work of the two mayors received national and international praise, but also criticism, but confidence was kept in the elections to the Christian Social party with the arrival of Cynthia Viteri, who promoted social work more than physical work in her management. He ran for re-election, but the majority of votes went to Aquiles Álvarez. Even Susana González failed to keep the prefecture of Guayas, which will be led by Marcela Aguiñaga from May.

The two elected authorities anticipate that the contracts in implementation will continue their course and will focus on their work for the province and for Guayaquil. They do not want to repeat old practices. A good talent for starting an administration that all citizens long for to be successful, because with good administration, the community wins in the end. (OR)