**Primary Article: Canaco Tijuana’s Leadership Election Narrows to Two Candidates**
In the upcoming election for the new leader of the Tijuana Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism (Canaco-Servytur), current president Julián Palombo Saucedo has identified two prominent contenders who are vying to succeed him. Initially, there were four potential candidates, including Ivette Casillas, the only female aspirant. However, Palombo now confirms that only Olivaldo Paz and Karim IV Chalita Rodríguez remain active in the race, as the electoral process and commitment to formulating a candidate’s slate has proven challenging for others.
The electoral call for the selection of Canaco-Servytur Tijuana’s new board was issued on February 7, marking an important event for the organization which holds significant ranking as the third largest chamber nationwide and the premier one along the northern border of Mexico. Concerns have arisen over the last elections, particularly in relation to a protest by merchants led by contender Chalita Rodríguez, who voiced complaints about election-related membership issues.
Palombo remains optimistic about a unified merchant turnout for the February 17 election. He reassured stakeholders that the internal process is transparent and adheres strictly to the chamber’s statutes. During his leadership, Palombo has seen the membership swell from 800 to nearly 3,000 members, driven by initiatives like the rehabilitation of property in Rosarito and the expansion of Canaco’s main venue in Tijuana.
As Palombo prepares to step down, he reflects on his aspirations, acknowledging past interest in leading Tijuana’s Business Coordinating Council (CCE), but now expressing a desire to serve as a counselor for the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce (Concanaco). Emphasizing his dedication to commerce, Palombo insists he holds no political ambitions, stating, “My heart and life are with commerce.”
**Secondary Article: Concerns Emerge Over Electoral Membership Process**
As the race for Canaco Tijuana’s presidency heats up, underlying tensions have surfaced regarding the membership enrollment process leading up to the election. A recent protest led by candidate Karim IV Chalita Rodríguez highlighted discrepancies in affiliate registrations, which he attributes to election politics. Merchants argue that electoral maneuvering is obstructing proper affiliation and re-affiliation, potentially skewing the outcome of the elections.
Julián Palombo Saucedo, addressing these concerns, asserts that adherence to the chamber’s regulations is crucial. According to Palombo, allowing individuals who do not meet the established criteria to affiliate could disrupt the integrity of the electoral process. He emphasizes that while there is a push for increased membership, it must align with formal commerce representation and statutory obligations.
This debate over membership reflects broader concerns about representation within the chamber. Some sectors previously expressed dissatisfaction, claiming they are not adequately represented by existing business chambers. With the stakes high, the upcoming election may dramatically reshape the landscape of Tijuana’s commercial leadership, making the issue of electoral fairness even more pertinent.