Manta’s Municipal Workers Demand Payment Amid State Debt Controversy

In the coastal city of Manta, a pressing issue has emerged as municipal workers demand overdue salaries amidst a contentious debate over delayed state transfers. The Municipality of Manta is entangled in financial strife due to stalled payments from the state, leading to contradictory claims by local authorities and increased pressure from unions demanding unpaid wages.

On October 6, 2025, it was reported that the municipality was grappling with conflicting figures regarding its debt. Initially, Mayor Marciana Valdivieso claimed on September 29 that the outstanding amount reached \(6.6 million for three months of delayed transfers. However, municipal advisor Pedro Zuluaga later revised this figure to \)4.4 million after one installment had been partially settled.

The heart of the issue lies in the “equity model,” a mechanism through which resources are distributed by the state to decentralized autonomous governments. This system has become central to the ongoing debate as various municipalities have expressed grievances over similar delays nationwide.

Union Head: Unpaid Wages Impact Families
The municipal workers’ union, led by Roberto Vera Zambrano, confirmed that salaries for August and September remain unpaid. The total monthly payroll amounts to \(640,000, resulting in a debt exceeding \)1.2 million. This situation affects approximately 2,000 families reliant on these incomes. The union has rejected partial payment offers and insists on full compensation.

Basic Services at Risk
Beyond salary delays, the financial strain threatens essential services. There are reported issues with fuel supplies for waste collection vehicles, jeopardizing city cleanliness. Additionally, a gradual reduction in workforce due to retirements and deaths, without filling these positions, burdens operational teams further. The union postponed protests after unfulfilled promises of payment, keeping the option of strikes or widespread protests on the table.

Comparison with Other Cantons
While neighboring municipalities like Portoviejo and Jaramijó have managed timely salary payments, Manta’s delays continue to accumulate. Union leaders urge Mayor Valdivieso to lead a commission directly negotiating with the Ministry of Finance for overdue resources.

Mayor Valdivieso acknowledges the complexity of the situation, emphasizing ongoing efforts to maintain service continuity and commitment to workers’ welfare.

Contextual Challenges
The equity model allocates funds based on factors such as population size, unsatisfied basic needs, and management capabilities. The delay in these allocations has become a national concern among mayors. In Manta, whether the debt is \(4.4 million or \)6.6 million, it significantly impacts municipal operations, project execution, and salary payments.

As local administration seeks ways to reduce dependency on state transfers, uncertainty looms over workers and citizens who might face disruptions in essential services if resolutions are not swiftly achieved.

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Original article source: El Diario