### 12 Reports of Gender-Based Political Violence Filed in Baja California Post-Election
During the recent 2024 electoral process in Baja California, a total of 12 reports of gender-based political violence were filed, according to Luis Alberto Hernández Morales, President of the Electoral Institute of Baja California (IEE BC).
“We received a total of 12 reports, and currently only 3 are under review,” reported Hernández Morales. The processing of these reports involves a special sanctioning process handled by the IEE, which conducts an investigation and then forwards the case to the Electoral Tribunal for a final resolution.
Of the 12 reported cases, 9 have already been sent to the tribunal for resolution. However, these cases are still pending a final decision. “I expect that these 3 remaining cases will be resolved before the electoral process concludes,” noted Hernández Morales. Most of these incidents occurred during the campaign period.
Additionally, Hernández Morales explained that electoral offenses fall into two categories: administrative offenses and criminal offenses. Administrative offenses are under the jurisdiction of administrative authorities and may result in the responsible party being listed in the State Registry of Offenders and subjected to various fines. In contrast, criminal offenses are referred to the prosecutor’s office, which may then request a judge to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with legal charges.
Notably, on August 20, Marco N was linked to a criminal process for gender-based political violence against the Governor of Baja California, Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda. These incidents occurred on social media and through a media outlet. The charges arose from a report filed on August 25, 2023, by the legal representative of the state government, Julio César Díaz Meza.
The initial investigation was conducted by the Technical Unit for Contentious Affairs of the IEE. An officer verified the existence of the offending publications, and as a preventive measure, ordered their removal. By June 7, 2022, the content had been taken down.
“We are committed to monitoring and promoting efforts to eradicate gender-based political violence. We have a specialized unit, candidate networks, and elected candidate networks dedicated to this cause, along with public policies aimed at prevention,” concluded Hernández Morales.
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### Related News: First Case of Gender-Based Political Violence in Baja California Leads to Criminal Process
In a historical first for Baja California, Marco Blásquez was formally linked to a criminal process for gender-based political violence. The decision was made after Blásquez, a former senator, was accused of making offensive comments towards Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, the Governor of Baja California.
Blásquez’s comments were considered to be politically motivated gender violence, and the case was escalated as a significant precedent in the state’s legal system. This move is seen as part of a broader effort to tackle gender-based violence in political contexts, with authorities keen to ensure that such behavior does not go unpunished.
“We must hold individuals accountable for their actions, especially when those actions perpetuate gender-based discrimination and violence,” stated a spokesperson from the prosecutor’s office. This case serves as a reminder of the legal and social consequences of such offenses and underscores the commitment of Baja California to uphold gender equality in political spaces.
### More Updates
– **Increase in Marijuana Plantations in Tecate**: Law enforcement reports a significant rise in marijuana plantations in the Tecate region, pushing authorities to ramp up surveillance and eradication efforts.
– **Teacher Strike Continues**: Teachers persist in their strike until interim teachers are paid. The strike has caused significant disruption in schools across the state.
– **New Park in Tijuana**: Community groups have collaborated to establish a park in Tijuana, dedicated to the memory of missing persons.
– **March in Tijuana**: Residents march in remembrance of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, highlighting ongoing concerns over missing persons.
These stories illustrate the ongoing legislative and social challenges in Baja California, as well as the community’s efforts to address and rectify pressing local issues.