Michoacán legislative reforms regarding UMSNH

The Michoacán State Congress initiated a review of legislative changes to the Organic Law of the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (UMSNH). The proposal sought to revive a Rector Commission to define the university rector for the 2027–2031 period, following claims that election rule timelines were not met. Following legislative debate, the Congress approved the reform to the UMSNH organic law to provide an institutional framework for renewing university authorities. The approval process involved significant political division. While proponents argued the measure provides institutional certainty and stability, opposing lawmakers criticized the decision. The session was also marked by protests from students and faculty members directed at Rector Yarabí Ávila. In a subsequent development, the Congress approved the reform to reinstate a Rector Commission to select the rector for the 2027–2031 term. This decision followed reports that the current university administration delayed establishing technical regulations for the election process. Deputy Baltazar Gaona García stated the initiative was supported by over six thousand signatures to ensure legal certainty. The commission will comprise eight members: five former rectors residing in the state, the dean of directors, the dean of active professors, and the university council student with the highest grade point average from the previous academic cycle. The reform passed with 32 votes in favor, three against, and one abstention. Some opposition legislators warned the move could infringe upon university autonomy and constitutional provisions regarding democratic elections. Following the reform, Rector Yarabí Ávila González accused Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla and Congress Board President Baltazar Gaona García of attempting to control the institution by imposing a rector through the commission. Ávila González also reported alleged sabotage at the Ciudad Universitaria facilities, specifically noting damage to institutional information screens.