Sheinbaum questions CNTE march to stadium, calls some 'radicals without representation'

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly questioned the rationale behind a planned march by the National Union of Education Workers (CNTE) to the Mexico City Stadium, where a World Cup match is scheduled. She specifically challenged the timing and purpose of the demonstration, asking, "What's the point of them marching to the stadium today? For what?"

Sheinbaum further criticized what she described as radical elements within the CNTE, asserting that these individuals often lack legitimate representation among teachers. "Many of the most radical, the most radical of this group are the ones who do not have representation," she stated, adding that those proposing the most extreme measures are often former leaders who no longer hold elected positions.

The president reiterated the federal government's commitment to engaging in dialogue with teachers across the states and with their union representatives. She emphasized a direct approach to hear the opinions of the rank-and-file educators. Both the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Education will be involved in addressing the teachers' concerns, with assurances of a peaceful operation in Mexico City that avoids provocations.

Sheinbaum also noted that no schools are currently on strike in Mexico City, though she acknowledged that a faction of the CNTE in the city desires representation. Similar situations exist in Guerrero, where the CNTE has limited representation, but dialogue continues. The president concluded by expressing her "absolute recognition" of the national teaching profession, asserting that private schools are not superior to public ones.