INE reopens Citizen Service Modules after national workers’ strike, Digi Mart USA News (Mexico City): The National Electoral Institute (INE) agreed with workers at its Citizen Service Modules to resume activities this Tuesday, following a nationwide strike held to demand better salaries and working conditions. The protest disrupted service in several states across Mexico.
Provisional council president Blanca Yassahara Cruz García said that after a meeting with employee representatives and various areas of the institute, agreements were reached to address their demands and restore service to the public. “Tomorrow our modules will be fully operating across the country at 100 percent,” she said during a press conference.
INE operates 841 Citizen Service Modules, including fixed, semi-fixed and mobile units.
According to a report presented by electoral councilor Carla Humphrey Jordan, 544 modules did not operate during the day, while 297 operated partially. This affected 64.7% of the institute’s locations.
The work stoppage affected procedures related to the voter identification card, including voter roll registrations, data updates, address changes, replacements and card deliveries. To assist those who could not attend their appointments, the organization will establish a rescheduling system and separate lines for people who only need to pick up their card.
The strike was called by workers from at least 20 states, who requested a salary increase, Monday-to-Friday work schedules, recognition of seniority, job stability, respect for vacation periods, and better conditions in the facilities and equipment used to serve the public.
Discontent intensified after INE announced seven measures for module staff on Sunday, November 8, including a 6% salary increase starting January 2027 for those at level FA1. Workers, however, considered the proposal insufficient and asked that their earnings reach the equivalent of two minimum salaries.
On this point, Cruz García explained that the announced percentage will remain the baseline for negotiation and that the institute will review whether it can be increased, depending on budget availability. “We will review from the minimum base of 6% how far we can grow it,” she said.
She also stated that there will be no administrative sanctions, pay deductions or reprisals against those who participated in the protest. She added that immediate needs at the modules, such as restroom cleaning and supplies needed for staff to perform their duties, will be addressed.
The agreement will allow services to resume starting this Tuesday, while the organization continues reviewing working conditions and the salary demands of its personnel.
