BTN News: Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, also known as “Alito,” has been re-elected as the national leader of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). His re-election has ignited criticism and disagreement among some of the party’s long-standing members. Alito has threatened to expel prominent figures like Dulce María Sauri, Francisco Labastida, and Pedro Joaquín Coldwell from the party. Moreno argues that these veterans of the old regime have benefited from the party but have also tainted its reputation, which he is determined to protect.
In a press conference, Moreno declared, “We will put them in their place and respond with firmness and clarity. They hurt the party with their past actions, and this allowed the government to build a damaging narrative against us.” This announcement followed the resolution of the National Assembly held on Sunday.
Controversial Statute Reform
Before discussing the reform of the PRI statutes, which would allow Alejandro Moreno to extend his leadership for an additional eight years, former national leader Dulce María Sauri voiced her disapproval. She accused Moreno of achieving “absolute control” over the ongoing state assemblies and orchestrating a self-serving fast-track convocation of the National Political Council. According to Sauri, this rush to call a National Assembly without waiting to analyze the results of the June 2 election indicates a desire to continue exploiting the party for personal gain.
Sauri’s concerns are shared by Francisco Labastida and Pedro Joaquín Coldwell, who also oppose Moreno’s extended tenure. Labastida and Coldwell argue that allowing Moreno to remain in power until 2032 is a poor decision.
More Criticism from Party Leaders
Manilo Fabio Beltrones, another former national president of PRI, joined the chorus of criticism against Moreno’s potential re-election. Beltrones labeled Moreno’s decision as “irresponsible,” suggesting it would not solve the underlying problems within the party. During a meeting with PRI delegates in Sonora on July 5, Beltrones said, “It’s absurd to think this measure is a solution to our deep-rooted issues. It seems like a simple and irresponsible decision.”
Historical Conflicts Within PRI
This isn’t the first time Alejandro Moreno has faced internal conflicts within the PRI. In 2023, several notable members, including Miguel Ángel Osorio Chong, Nuvia Mayorga, Claudia Ruiz Massieu, Jorge Carlos Ramírez Marín, Eruviel Ávila, and former Hidalgo governor Omar Fayad, were expelled from the party due to their disputes with Alito. The tension between Osorio Chong and Moreno dates back to 2021 when Moreno attempted to remove Chong from his Senate coordination role.
Osorio Chong was also among those who demanded clarity regarding the corruption and illicit enrichment allegations against Moreno. These allegations were brought to light by Campeche Governor Layda Sansores, who released recordings revealing various financial irregularities and illegal enrichment.
Conclusion
Alejandro Moreno’s re-election as PRI leader has undeniably stirred significant controversy within the party. The clash between old and new factions highlights deep-seated issues and varying visions for the party’s future. As the debate over his leadership continues, it remains to be seen how the PRI will navigate these internal conflicts and whether Moreno can unify the party or if his leadership will further deepen the divide.
