New INE counselors must guarantee independence; Zavala criticizes Taddei's 'superpowers'

El Universal features an interview with Claudia Zavala, a former electoral counselor, who stresses the critical importance of ensuring the independence and autonomy of the National Electoral Institute (INE) as new counselors are chosen. Zavala articulates a clear concern that the selection process must safeguard the INE from any undue influence, whether political or otherwise. She specifically points to the reforms that have granted significant authority to the current president, Guadalupe Taddei, describing them as "superpowers" that have negatively impacted the INE's ability to function impartially as the nation's electoral referee.

Zavala reflects on her tenure, highlighting the significant challenges the INE faced, particularly concerning the government's "model of political communication." She notes that despite unusual pressures originating from the presidential morning press conferences ('mañaneras'), the INE demonstrated resilience and upheld constitutional mandates. However, she argues that the spirit of collegiality, which is fundamental to the INE's decision-making process, has been somewhat undermined by recent internal rule changes. She expresses a desire for more robust tools for the institute to carry out its oversight duties and for greater clarity regarding campaign timelines.

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The election of three new counselors for the National Electoral Institute must guarantee that the body remains autonomous and independent from any type of de facto power in Mexico.

From a Mexican perspective, this interview delves into the ongoing debate surrounding the autonomy and effectiveness of electoral institutions. Zavala's critique of the "superpowers" granted to the INE president resonates with concerns about the concentration of power and potential for partisan influence. The article implicitly contrasts the current situation with a past where the INE, despite external pressures, managed to maintain a more collegial and perhaps less politicized internal structure. The mention of the 2024 electoral arbitration, where the INE had to carefully balance constitutional restrictions with a new communication model, underscores the complex environment in which the institute operates.

What makes this story particularly significant from a Mexican viewpoint is its direct engagement with the institutional integrity of the body responsible for overseeing elections. Zavala's perspective, as a former insider, offers a critical assessment of recent reforms. The framing suggests that while the INE remains a large and functional organization, the changes in its internal rules, particularly those that centralize decision-making power, could jeopardize its core principles of impartiality and collective deliberation. This is not just about administrative changes; it's about the health of Mexico's democratic processes.

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The INE has managed to remain resilient and firm against the attacks it received from the pulpit of the morning conferences, but its collegial spirit 'does not go well' with the reform known as 'Taddei's super powers,' which has somewhat diminished its functioning as an electoral arbiter.