### Call for New Search Commissioner: Advocacy Groups Demand Transparent Selection Process
On Friday, August 16, the Official State Gazette published a call for applications to appoint the new Commissioner for Missing Persons, following a year of pressure from advocacy groups.
The announcement outlines specific requirements for applicants: they must be Mexican by birth, hold a professional degree, not have been a leader of any political party in the past two years, not be disqualified from public service, have verifiable experience in human rights, and possess an impeccable reputation.
Paula Sandoval, spokesperson for the State Movement for the Disappeared, emphasized the importance of adhering to these criteria to avoid politically motivated appointments, a practice known locally as “dedazo.” “We hope that this process will follow the rules, that qualified candidates who are genuinely interested in the role will be considered, because it’s been a struggle to find the right profile,” Sandoval said.
Sandoval added that their group has at least two independent candidates in mind who have no affiliation with victims or their families, ensuring an unbiased approach. “I no longer trust the government; I fear they will let us down again as they have before and appoint someone based on political convenience,” she stated.
She also recalled that the 2023 selection process was marred with irregularities, leading to the occupation of the State Search Commission offices in Tijuana, blockades, and ongoing protests. “The person appointed to this role must have both the academic credentials and the emotional capacity to handle this challenging task,” Sandoval concluded.
### Additional News
**New Juzgados Familiares (Family Courtrooms) to Open in Tijuana and Mexicali**
In related updates, new Family Courtrooms are set to open in Tijuana and Mexicali this September, enhancing judicial efficiency in these regions. The establishment of these new courtrooms aims to reduce backlog and expedite family-related cases.
**Fifth Rodeo Season Event at Rancho Casian**
The fifth event of the current rodeo season will be held at Rancho Casian. This exhilarating event aims to bring together rodeo enthusiasts and participants for a weekend full of traditional rodeo activities.
**Baja California Remains Free of Simian Smallpox Cases in 2024**
The Health Department of Baja California has confirmed that there have been no reported cases of Simian Smallpox this year. The state’s health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain preventive measures to ensure public health safety.
For more news and updates, visit TJGringo.com.