### Baja California Business Leaders Distance Themselves from Olivaldo Paz and Call for Interim Presidency at Tijuana Chamber of Commerce
Business leaders in Baja California have formally dissociated themselves from Olivaldo Paz Gómez, the elected president of the National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Canaco-Servytur) in Tijuana. Paz Gómez is currently facing serious allegations of sexual abuse and is entangled in a family inheritance lawsuit. Due to these controversies, the Concanaco and the Chambers of Commerce in Tecate, Ensenada, and Mexicali have urged that an interim president be appointed by the Board of Directors until Paz Gómez resolves his legal situation. They emphasize that this move would uphold respect and institutional stability by preventing him from assuming the presidency under such contentious circumstances.
In a collective statement led by the president of the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Concanaco), Octavio de la Torre Stéffano, the organization underscored the need for institutions to operate above personal interests or alliances.
During the February 17 assembly where Paz Gómez was elected, concerns were raised regarding the reaffiliation process and limited participation. This resulted in a drastic reduction of affiliates, from 2,000 to just 200 participating members. Calls were made for Julián Palombo, the acting president of Canaco Tijuana, to ensure a transparent and equitable election. Despite his capacity to do so, Palombo did not postpone the assembly to rectify the issues noted.
The Chambers of Tecate, Mexicali, Ensenada, along with the national confederation, have reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating gender violence and all forms of discrimination. They stated, “We reiterate our devotion to the institution and its members in this municipality, vehemently condemning any sign of violence or discrimination.”
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### Business Climate in Baja California Stirs Amid Governance Concerns
Amidst the leadership dispute within the Tijuana Chamber of Commerce, business communities in Baja California are facing a growing climate of uncertainty. Local business owners express concerns over stability and the potential impact on economic activities in the region. The ongoing governance challenges underscore the importance of transparent and credible leadership in maintaining investor confidence.
A recent trend points towards a more cautious approach by investors and stakeholders until such matters are resolved. The call for interim leadership is seen as a necessity to navigate the chamber through this difficult period. These developments come at a time when the region looks to capitalize on cross-border trade opportunities, particularly as Tijuana is set to host a bi-national business forum focusing on the T-MEC agreement later this year.
Additionally, the local business landscape is challenged by urban development issues in key areas like La Paz, where inadequate planning has affected commercial activities. As the debate continues, the resolve of the business community to support ethical governance practices appears unwavering, reflecting a broader commitment to robust and sustainable economic growth.