**TEPJF Approves Reelection of PRI Leaders for Another Four Years**
In a decisive public session on October 3, 2024, the Superior Chamber of the Electoral Court of the Federal Judicial Branch (TEPJF) endorsed the reelection of Rafael Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, known as “Alito,” and Alma Carolina Viggiano Austria as the president and general secretary of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). This decision extends their terms until 2028.
Despite dissenting viewpoints, including from magistrates Janine Madeline Otálora Malassis and Reyes Rodríguez Mondragón, who suggested annulling some voting booths due to isolated irregularities, the majority supported the party’s internal reforms. Mónica Aralí Soto Fregoso, Felipe de la Mata Pizaña, and Felipe Alfredo Fuentes Barrera argued in favor, grounding the decision in precedence from other parties’ statute reforms permissible during electoral processes.
Fuentes Barrera emphasized the legality of the reform, noting that reelection is not banned within constitutional or party law. He argued that such modifications fall within the party’s rights of autonomy and organization. The approved reforms allow for consecutive re-elections within party leadership at national, state, and municipal levels.
On the contrary, Otálora Malassis maintained that parties should not alter their core statutes during elections. Rodríguez Mondragón also criticized the process timing, suggesting that local electoral cycles should not impede national party changes.
Previously, on September 12, 2024, the General Council of the National Electoral Institute (INE), by a majority vote, initially rejected the PRI’s reforms, citing procedural timing issues related to the ongoing electoral process. Despite acknowledging the institutional decision, “Alito” indicated that the PRI would take the matter to TEPJF, asserting that their national assembly’s decisions were legitimate and supported by higher court precedents.
**Additional News: Reaction to PRI’s Leadership Reelection**
Since the TEPJF’s endorsement, the political sphere has been abuzz with varied reactions. Several political analysts have expressed concern over the precedent set by allowing party leadership reelections and influencing future party dynamics. Critics argue that extending terms without a broader mandate could stifle necessary party reforms and democratization.
In contrast, supporters within PRI celebrate the decision as a stabilization move, asserting that consistent leadership amidst an evolving political landscape is crucial for maintaining competitive electoral strategies against rivals.
Moreover, the political climate faces scrutiny with pending elections in Veracruz and Durango, as opposition parties prepare to challenge PRI stalwarts in upcoming campaigns. Amidst these events, political watchdogs continue to call for transparency and adherence to electoral norms to ensure fair political competition.
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