President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned an incident on Wednesday afternoon in which a small group affiliated with the Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) allegedly attempted to force entry into the offices of the Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB) during a meeting with federal officials. Sheinbaum called on CNTE leaders to either “accept responsibility for the actions” or formally condemn the attempted breach, arguing that such provocations undermine dialogue efforts.
According to the president, a commission of CNTE delegates had been invited inside SEGOB to discuss ongoing educational and labor concerns when “a few individuals began hurling stones and attempting to break through the main door.” Sheinbaum noted that, while the group was small, their actions disrupted the scheduled talks and risked escalating tensions. “It is unacceptable that in the middle of a dialogue table—chosen by CNTE leaders—some individuals suddenly resort to violence. Either you stand by the negotiation process, or you publicly distance yourselves from those actions,” she stated.
Sheinbaum’s remarks came after a brief security intervention prevented any injuries and allowed federal officials to secure the premises. The president emphasized that dialogue remains the preferred path for resolving disputes, but reiterated that law enforcement would respond firmly if provocations continued. CNTE representatives have not yet issued an official statement regarding the alleged incident.
Critics of CNTE argue that sporadic violent episodes have repeatedly hampered constructive talks with federal and state governments. In response, local and national authorities have increased security measures around forums where CNTE delegates are scheduled to meet. Despite these efforts, some CNTE factions insist on maintaining a hardline stance, demanding immediate reforms and employment guarantees for contract teachers.
As of this morning, SEGOB officials confirmed that no injuries occurred during the attempted breach and that investigative authorities are reviewing security footage to identify those responsible. Meanwhile, opposition parties and civil society groups have urged CNTE leadership to clarify whether they support or disavow such tactics. Federal deputies have also announced plans to summon CNTE representatives for formal questioning.
This incident follows a broader pattern of sporadic protests by dissident teachers’ groups nationwide. While CNTE activists defend their methods as necessary to draw attention to long-standing grievances—such as delayed payments and lack of permanent contracts—Sheinbaum insists that violence undermines credibility. She concluded: “If you are serious about dialogue, demonstrate it with your actions; if not, step aside and allow others who seek a peaceful resolution to come forward.”
