Background on the 8 de 8 Rule and its Relevance
The 8 de 8 rule, or “Ocho de Ocho contra la Violencia,” is a crucial measure implemented by the Mexican electoral authority, the National Electoral Institute (INE), to prevent candidates with a history of gender violence from participating in the judicial elections. This initiative aims to ensure that only candidates free of such offenses can hold positions in the judiciary, promoting gender equality and safety within the legal system.
The rule’s significance stems from its focus on addressing gender violence, a pervasive issue in Mexico and worldwide. By implementing this measure, the INE seeks to uphold integrity in the judicial branch and protect women from further harm.
Senado’s Impugnation of the 8 de 8 Rule
The Mexican Senate has recently impugned, or challenged, the INE’s 8 de 8 rule before the Federal Electoral Tribunal (TEPJF). The Senado argues that the review process has already been conducted by the Evaluation Committees, and thus, the idoneity stages for aspirants have been completed.
This challenge comes after Nallely Vianey Paredes Suárez, a candidate for a district judge position in Mexico City, filed a similar impugnation six days prior. Both cases have been assigned to Magistrado Felipe Fuentes Barrera.
Context of the INE’s Decision
On April 24, without the approval of its president, the INE’s General Council approved a mechanism to investigate suspicious candidates in the judicial election. This mechanism aims to remove registration from those with a firm conviction for gender violence, alimony debtors, or fugitives from justice.
Debate Regulations and Impugnations
Alongside the 8 de 8 rule impugnation, the TEPJF has received 11 challenges related to INE’s Acuerdo/CG358/2025, which outlines regulations for candidates to attend forums and debates.
The INE’s guidelines stipulate that candidate participants in judicial, magisterial, or ministerial positions must attend equitable events and forums organized by public, private, or social sectors. All candidates for the same position within the same geographical area must receive invitations, and at least 50% of the candidates should participate.
- Exclusion of Public Servants and Political Figures: Public servants, social program operators, and national servants cannot act as moderators in these events.
- No Privileges for Specific Candidates: Forums must be free and accessible to all, without any candidate being given preferential treatment through the provision of food, services, or promotional items.
These 11 cases have been directed to Magistrate Janine Otálora Malassis, who will determine the legality of these regulations.
