**Senate Rejects Formation of Special Commission for Teuchitlán Ranch Case**
On March 25, 2025, the Mexican Senate voted against the establishment of a Special Commission to investigate the alleged use of the Izaguirre Ranch in Teuchitlán, Jalisco, as a training ground for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The proposal was rejected with 61 votes in favor and 30 against.
Support for the proposal came predominantly from the political parties Morena, the Green Ecologist Party (PVEM), and the Labor Party (PT). Those opposing the formation of the commission were mainly from the National Action Party (PAN), the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), and the Citizens’ Movement (MC).
Proponents from Morena, PVEM, and PT argued that the issue did not warrant urgent action, while PAN and PRI called for an independent international investigation to uncover the truth about the ranch. Manuel Añorve Baños, PRI’s Senate coordinator, emphasized the need for an investigation commission, stating that missing persons’ families deserve answers.
The proposal by PRI was ultimately dismissed, receiving 67 votes against and only 27 in favor. Senate acting president Jorge Carlos Ramírez Marín of the PVEM indicated that the matter would be referred to the Governance Commission, as it was not deemed urgent.
The Senate’s Directing Board President, José Gerardo Rodolfo Fernández Noroña, argued against external investigative involvement, assuring that the Mexican authorities, particularly the General Prosecution Office, are adequately handling the situation. He stressed confidence in the investigation and promised thorough inquiries, with no impunity.
The Senate agreed to summon Alejandro Gertz Manero, head of the General Prosecution Office, for updates on the case. Independent Senator Manlio Fabio Beltrones Rivera reinforced trust in Mexican institutions, advocating for pressing for better results from national authorities.
**Secondary Article: Growing Concerns Over Organized Crime in Mexico**
The controversy surrounding the Teuchitlán ranch is just one part of broader concerns about organized crime activities in Mexico. Recently, efforts to curb the influence of cartels have intensified, with both local and international parties calling for more stringent actions.
The Mexican government’s moves to address cartel operations have been mixed, with some progress in high-profile operations but critiques regarding transparency and thoroughness. The debate continues on how to best manage and counter cartel presence, as communities show frustration over violence and insecurity.
Internationally, Mexico is under pressure to show results and collaboration, especially with its North American peers, in order to curb drug trafficking and other related crimes. The situation remains complex, with varying levels of success in law enforcement and recurring calls for overhaul in strategy and policy implementation.