Mexico's INE opens 2026 public contest for electoral service positions

The National Electoral Institute (INE) has opened the 2026 Public Contest to fill 176 positions within the National Professional Electoral Service (SPEN) across 28 Mexican entities. The selection process is designed to be based on merit, impartiality, and transparency, utilizing knowledge exams, psychometric evaluations, and interviews.

However, controversy has arisen regarding the Instituto Electoral y de Participación Ciudadana (IEPAC) in Yucatán. Nine vacancies within the IEPAC have reportedly been excluded from this national contest. Critics suggest these positions may be filled through temporary assignments (encargadurías de despacho) rather than the open, merit-based competition, raising concerns regarding the transparency and independence of the local electoral body.