The president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, responded to the criticisms from Ernesto Zedillo regarding the public works promoted by the current government. Sheinbaum remembered that the Maya Train and the Dos Bocas refinery are being reviewed by the Superior Audit Office of the Federation (ASF), an independent body whose head, David Colmenares, was appointed before the current administration took office.
Sheinbaum defended the importance of these mega-projects, especially the Maya Train, which she considers crucial for the development of southern Mexico and the appreciation of Maya culture. In response to Zedillo, Sheinbaum highlighted the difference between the privatization of public infrastructure by previous neoliberal governments and the current projects aimed at boosting tourism and the regional economy.
In her 'mañanera', Claudia Sheinbaum criticized Zedillo's stance, pointing out the hypocrisy in his criticisms of public works when, according to her, it was during his administration that passenger trains were privatized and disappeared. She also rejected Zedillo's proposal to appoint an auditor to review the projects, arguing that the Maya Train has been a success in attracting tourists and boosting the local economy.
Ernesto Zedillo had proposed the appointment of an auditor of "impeccable professional reputation" to review projects such as the Dos Bocas refinery, the Maya Train, and the cancellation of the Texcoco Airport. Zedillo emphasized the need for transparency regarding the costs and benefits of the current government's works, referring to delays and budget increases.
On the other hand, the Superior Audit Office of the Federation had detected irregularities in the Maya Train, noting improper and excessive payments in some sections. In particular, irregularities amounting to 785 million pesos were identified as damages to the treasury, including improper payments for goods other than land and excess payments on contracts in some sections.
In summary, the confrontation between Claudia Sheinbaum and Ernesto Zedillo reveals differences of opinion about public works in Mexico, with arguments ranging from the economic and cultural relevance of the Maya Train to the need for transparency in the handling of public resources in government projects.
