Mexican Police Prepare for CNTE Teacher Protests as Talks Break Down
Mexican President Sheinbaum announced an end to direct bilateral talks with the dissident CNTE teachers' union, stating future negotiations would be tripartite. This decision followed the union's rejection of the government's "final" offer and its continuation of strike actions, including taking over highway toll booths. Federal police are now preparing for further planned demonstrations across Mexico City and potentially in at least 20 states.
President Sheinbaum stated on Monday that her government would no longer engage in direct bilateral discussions with the CNTE teachers' union. She affirmed that negotiations would proceed in a tripartite format, involving the federal government, respective state governments, and the union. The government had previously presented what it termed its "final proposal," which included establishing a permanent technical working group and consulting teachers school-by-school regarding pension reform possibilities.
The CNTE union has been on strike since June 1, establishing encampments in Mexico City's Historic Center. Their actions have included blockading major thoroughfares, staging demonstrations at the Mexico City International Airport, the Education Ministry, and other federal buildings. The union has also previously threatened to disrupt the World Cup.
On Monday, striking CNTE teachers began a new wave of actions by taking control of a toll booth in the Tlalpan borough of Mexico City, at the start of the Mexico-Cuernavaca highway, allowing motorists free passage. In response, the federal Security Ministry (SSPC) announced measures in anticipation of the planned mobilization. The SSPC stated approximately 800 protesters were expected on the northbound side of the highway, monitoring demonstrations and providing updates on route changes and alternative routes to the public.
Union leaders held a press conference near the toll booth to announce their upcoming strike actions, reiterating demands for wage increases and pension reform. The CNTE members are also anticipated to stage demonstrations in at least 20 states, spanning from Oaxaca and Chiapas in the south to Sonora and Chihuahua in the north. Authorities nationwide have advised travelers to stay informed through official channels.
After the federal government concluded negotiations and announced its final offer, the union voted on Sunday to reject the proposals and continue its strike. However, some teachers have reportedly expressed concerns about demonstrations that inconvenience the general public, fearing a potential negative shift in public sentiment. President Sheinbaum also noted a decrease in participants within the encampments over the weekend, suggesting a potential waning of resolve among members. Merchants in downtown Mexico City have reported millions in losses due to the ongoing encampments.
According to Mexico News Daily, these developments mark a significant turn in the ongoing dispute between the Mexican government and the CNTE.
