Introduction
The Mexican electoral authority, the National Electoral Institute (INE), has reported that it has not found sufficient evidence to declare any of the 26 candidates for the Federal Judicial Power (PJF) ineligible due to violations of gender norms, being a fugitive from justice, or owing alimony.
Background and Context
The INE presented a preliminary report on 13 specific allegations made by citizens and civil society organizations against various candidates for supposedly breaching gender norms. These allegations pertain to the “8 of 8” rule, which requires candidates to demonstrate they have no history of violence against women, among other criteria.
The INE emphasized that allegations must be supported by firm resolutions from competent authorities, as mandated by the current constitutional and legal framework.
Details of Denunciations
So far, the INE has received 38 denunciations against 26 PJF candidates for allegedly committing gender-based political violence. The allegations include:
- Three cases of alleged deadbeat dads
- Three cases of domestic violence
- One case of equated family violence
- One case of rape against a minor and being a fugitive
- One case of crimes against sexual freedom and security
- One case of political violence against women
- One more case of being a fugitive from justice
- One case of workplace harassment
- One case of losing political-electoral rights
Consejeras’ Statements
Carla Humphrey: The consejera highlighted the need to strengthen information verification mechanisms regarding potential denunciations, as she found it unusual that no findings were reported in all cases. She called for a more thorough investigation into the denunciations, considering the gravity of the alleged conduct.
Dania Ravel: The consejera mentioned that the report involves three individuals aspiring to join the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), a Regional Chamber of the Electoral Tribunal, and a Circuit Court. These candidates are denounced for gender-based political violence or fall under the “8 of 8” system criteria.
Ravel also pointed out that some cases will continue to be investigated due to the lack of a definitive response from certain authorities.
Ongoing Investigations
The INE stated that investigations will continue until June 15, when they will declare the validity of the election and issue certificates of majority to the winners.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the “8 of 8” rule? It’s a set of criteria established by the INE that candidates for the PJF must meet, including demonstrating no history of violence against women.
- Why are investigations ongoing? Some allegations lack definitive responses from competent authorities, and further investigation is required due to the gravity of the alleged conduct.
- What happens after June 15? The INE will declare the validity of the election and issue certificates of majority to the winners based on the investigation outcomes.
