The 4T, between censorship and intrigues

In recent weeks, the so-called Fourth Transformation (4T) has demonstrated its interest in having absolute control, even over social media, and has also revealed the intrigues that exist within the movement created by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

The new Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law initiative presented by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has been criticized as an attempt at censorship, as it seeks to "temporarily block" digital platforms for "noncompliance with provisions or obligations set forth in the respective regulations applicable to them," although it does not clarify what it refers to and leaves the term ambiguous.

Additionally, it states that the Ministry of the Interior may fine television stations, radio broadcasters, and digital platforms up to 5% of their profits if they broadcast foreign government advertising unrelated to cultural or tourism purposes.

And it grants the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency absolute power to decide on radio, television, and broadband licenses, as well as to suspend them.

Once the initiative reached the Senate, the eager senators of the so-called 4T (Four Transformations of the Revolution)—that is, Morena, the Green Party (PVEM), and the Labor Party (PT)—were quick to point out that the proposal would be approved before the end of the regular session, i.e., April 30.

However, criticism from civil society and international organizations such as the United Nations (UN) caused President Sheinbaum Pardo to take a step back and request a change in the wording of the controversial article, in addition to conducting a more comprehensive analysis of her initiative.

Thus, yesterday, the Morena party in the Senate announced that it will hold an open parliament with the participation of all involved sectors; therefore, it is expected that the new Telecommunications Law, which actually retains most of the provisions of the current legislation, will be approved in an extraordinary session. It remains to be seen whether they heed the experts' opinions.

Amid the controversy surrounding the approval of this initiative, one who fared poorly was Senate President Gerardo Fernández, who was booed this weekend during the National Congress of the Labor Party.

And how could he not feel the rejection of the PT if, after this party allowed him to remain a legislator and even proposed him as a presidential candidate, he turned his back on him by joining Morena.

However, he hasn't been welcomed in Morena either. If you don't believe me, just ask the President, who has criticized his travel luxuries. Once his presidency in the Senate concludes, he'll become just another member of the 128 legislators. It remains to be seen what he does with his ego.

And in Question Without Offense:

This Tuesday, Attorney General Alejandro Gertz will make conclusive progress on the Izaguirre ranch case in Teuchitlán, Jalisco; or will he simply focus on denying reports that victims of disappearances were cremated on the property?

@aguilarkarina