MEXICO

On November 25 the Chamber of Deputies approved the appointment of Pablo Gómez Álvarez as the new head of the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF in Spanish) with 304 votes in favor, 95 against and 35 abstentions. Thus, the legislative process for the ratification of the new head was concluded, and the official is now in office. 

During the debate in the plenary, the opposition once again emphasized that Pablo Gómez is not suitable for the position because he lacks experience and relevant knowledge, so that his appointment implies a “weakening of the institutions”. The ruling party, however, defended his nomination, arguing that he is a person who has stood out for his “fight against corruption and for being a serious and responsible man”.

Álvarez studied Economics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM in Spanish). Subsequently, he dedicated himself to public activity in which he served as deputy five times, and as senator only once. In addition, he was a party leader in the Communist Party, the Unified Socialist Party of Mexico (PSUM in Spanish) and the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD in Spanish). Prior to his appointment, he served as a deputy for Morena.