The reform to the electoral law that empowers the president counselor of the INE to directly appoint high-level officials has generated controversy. This reform has reduced the powers of the General Council and has concentrated power in the Executive General Board led by the president and her appointed officials. This has changed the collegial and horizontal dynamics of the institution to a more unidirectional one.
A federal judge ordered the president of the Republic and the director of the Official Journal of the Federation to withdraw the reform from that publication within 24 hours, threatening to involve the Public Ministry in case of non-compliance. The reaction of President Sheinbaum, disqualifying the judge and threatening to report her, has generated criticism about the respect for norms by the authorities.
The National Electoral Institute is awaiting a ruling on the contested reform in the Superior Chamber, while continuing with preparations for the most complex election it has had to organize. This reform has weakened the INE by giving the president of the General Council the power to directly appoint officials, which undermines the legitimacy of its decisions that were based on collegial agreements and dialogue with different actors.
The weakening of institutions can have serious consequences for society, affecting its capacity to solve structural problems, its political maturity, and its respect for norms. The INE is facing challenges that call into question its effectiveness and credibility, especially amid a complex election of federal judges. This has led to a pause in activities for the organization of judicial elections while awaiting the resolution of jurisdictional controversies.
The current situation reflects a move towards the concentration of power, the weakening of institutions, and the predominance of loyalty over professional qualities. In a context of constitutional crisis, it is essential to confront and resolve these challenges to guarantee democracy, justice, and respect for the rights of society.
