Morena CDMX denounces PAN deputies to electoral body over alleged pyramid scheme
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Morena deputies filed a complaint with the Mexico City Electoral Institute against PAN deputies Daniela Álvarez and Andrés Sánchez.
- The PAN deputies are accused of operating a pyramid scheme disguised as a social program, selling household items at inflated prices.
- Morena alleges the deputies use their official positions and party resources to promote these sales, violating constitutional provisions against personalized public promotion.
Morena deputies have formally accused two PAN deputies, Daniela Álvarez and Andrés Sánchez, of running a fraudulent scheme involving the sale of household goods. The complaint, filed with the Mexico City Electoral Institute (IECM), alleges that the PAN officials are operating a pyramid scheme disguised as a social program in the Tlalpan and Xochimilco neighborhoods.
According to the Morena legislators who filed the complaint, Álvarez and Sánchez are allegedly purchasing items such as water tanks, solar water heaters, mattresses, and appliances from an organization called "Sumando Oportunidades." They then resell these products to residents at prices equal to or exceeding market rates, presenting them as subsidized aid. Morena claims the deputies profit from these sales, potentially through a "parallel financing" scheme that authorities should investigate.
The accusation further details that the deputies promote these products using their names, images, and party colors, often with branding on the items themselves. This practice, Morena argues, constitutes a violation of Article 134 of the Constitution, which prohibits the personalized promotion of public servants outside of campaign periods. Evidence cited includes social media posts and catalogs featuring the deputies promoting the products under the guise of community support and affordable pricing.
Morena highlighted that the contact number provided for sales inquiries matches the official number for Deputy Álvarez's legislative office. They contend that this 'moche,' or illicit gain, is not only about the money but also about the misuse of public office and resources for personal or party enrichment. The complaint seeks an immediate special sanctioning procedure and precautionary measures against the accused PAN deputies.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.