Mexico adopts anti‑nepotism rules for municipal elections

A constitutional reform amending article 115 of the Mexican Constitution prohibits relatives or former partners of incumbent municipal officials from running for mayor, councilor or other local office within three years of the incumbent’s term. The measure aims to curb the concentration of public positions within families and strengthen fair competition.

The reform also sets a cap of 15 council seats per municipality, defines gender‑parity requirements for municipal cabinets, and removes intermediate authority between municipal governments and state governments, increasing direct accountability of local officials. While most municipalities will adjust to the new limits, the state of Chiapas already complies with the cap and will not need to reduce council members. The changes are slated to apply to the 2027 municipal elections.