**Unprecedented Elections for CANACO Tijuana Candidacies to be Determined Today**
On Friday, the Election Commission of the National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Canaco-Servytur) in Tijuana is set to decide whether the candidacy will be granted to two slates: “Por el futuro del comercio,” led by Karim Chalita Rodríguez IV, and “Centenario,” headed by Olivaldo Paz Gómez. These candidates are vying for leadership in an internal election on Monday, February 17, 2025.
The elections come amidst a divided commercial sector, with accusations that current president Julián Palombo Saucedo has shown favoritism towards Paz Gómez. Additionally, there are hints of possible political interference from a local senator. The controversy has intensified after Chalita Rodríguez’s slate demanded transparency by requesting the membership list, which the current president said he would provide upon approval from the governing committee.
A significant issue is the uncertain number of affiliates. Palombo claims there are around 3,000 members, while Chalita Rodríguez’s team estimates between 400 and 900, depending on the consideration of franchises. The latter has accused the system of preventing affiliates from registering their vote, citing technical “system issues.”
Last Wednesday, during the registration process at Canaco’s offices, Carlos Alberto Álvarez Gutiérrez from Chalita’s slate emphasized that their documentation met all requirements. He warned that denying them entry despite this would compromise the institution’s credibility.
According to Álvarez Gutiérrez, Canaco is not prepared for this type of competitive election, which is unprecedented for them. Nonetheless, he expressed hope for a fair and legal process, while Chalita Rodríguez threatened to appeal to the Ministry of Economy if irregularities were found.
Meanwhile, Olivaldo Paz Gómez, who currently holds the vice-presidency at Canaco, presented the “Centenario” slate, promising genuine support for business interests and committing to improving security for commercial areas if elected. Paz Gomez’s slate includes several prominent figures and promises unity within the trade sector.
**Secondary Article: Tensions and Challenges Facing Canaco’s Electoral Process**
As the Canaco Tijuana election approaches, the tension between candidates, amidst accusations of bias and political interference, highlights the challenges facing this commercial institution. This unprecedented election is a test of Canaco’s internal processes and the wider sector’s unity. With discrepancies over affiliate counts and frustrations over electoral system failures, the atmosphere remains contentious. Candidates have called for transparency and fairness, and any potential irregularities could lead to appeals and increased scrutiny. As both slates prepare for the decision day, the commercial sector keenly anticipates the outcome, which could set a new precedent for future elections in Tijuana’s business community.