Sheinbaum states deputies may reduce INE budget

President Claudia Sheinbaum stated during a press conference that deputies have the authority to reduce the budget for the National Electoral Institute (INE). She noted that while the Executive branch must incorporate budget requests from autonomous bodies, the Congress can adjust the INE's allocation to a range consistent with its 2024, 2025, and 2026 resources.

Sheinbaum suggested that internal savings are likely possible following reports of alleged corruption involving electoral material providers. This follows an announcement by the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) that it has blocked the accounts of 25 individuals and 15 legal entities linked to electoral suppliers. The UIF has also filed a complaint with the Attorney General's Office (FGR).

The Ministry of Finance clarified that these account freezes are preventive and do not constitute a final determination of responsibility. Meanwhile, the INE General Council planned to vote on a plan to strengthen contracting controls, including external audits and requests for information from the UIF and the Tax Administration Service (SAT).