The ambition for power in Mexico: between corruption, control, and social discontent.

The temptation for absolute power is a constant that has marked the political history of Mexico, and it seems that few have been able to resist it. The ambition to control everything, to have the final word in every decision that affects the people, is a desire that consumes many politicians, who see power as a credit card with no limits. This relentless pursuit of dominance often translates into decisions that sacrifice the well-being of citizens in order to achieve personal or group ends. In this context, power and money become the main actors in a dangerous game. The reforms promoted by Enrique Peña Nieto, particularly those aimed at opening the energy sector to private investment, exemplify this dynamic. With the promise of modernizing infrastructure and increasing competitiveness, a web of interests benefiting businessmen close to the Atlacomulco Group was concealed. The shadow of the Odebrecht scandal permeated this process, and despite evidence of corruption, the current president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, did nothing but look the other way. The recent arrest of Emilio Lozoya, the architect of this corrupt operation, left a bitter taste among the population, as his imprisonment was more symbolic than effective, reflecting a persistent impunity. The current government has not been exempt from the same temptation. López Obrador's obsession with consolidating his power has led him to place loyal individuals in key positions within electoral bodies, thereby ensuring a majority in Congress that could be seen as a permit to act without restrictions. This control extends to judicial institutions, where judges and magistrates appear to be at the beck and call of the Executive, a phenomenon that recalls Emiliano Zapata's warning about the chair of power: whoever occupies it loses their reason. This phenomenon is not new. History is full of examples of leaders who, once in power, become prisoners of their own ambitions. The anecdote of Eufemio Zapata attempting to burn the presidential chair in an act of desperation is just a reminder of how ambition can lead to madness. Today, López Obrador sits in a replica of that very chair, enjoying the pleasures of power while the population watches with growing unease. With a qualified majority in his favor, López Obrador's government finds itself in a position of excessive advantage. The opposition, which represents a significant portion of the Mexican population, is minimized in the legislative process, becoming an echo of voices that could soon become irrelevant. The lack of necessity to negotiate with other parties to achieve legislative goals implies that political dialogue has transformed into an authoritarian monologue. The situation becomes even more concerning when considering that economic uncertainty looms over the country. With a reform that could drive away foreign investment and a climate of distrust in the market, the legacy that López Obrador leaves to his successor, Claudia Sheinbaum, could be one of instability and crisis. This is particularly alarming considering the impact it would have on millions of jobs that depend on a conducive environment for investment. Statements from ambassadors of allied countries, pointing out the dangers of the current economic policy, are seen by the government as intrusions into national sovereignty. However, many Mexicans are left wondering: who is really defending their interests? López Obrador's belligerent rhetoric could lead to more serious consequences, leaving the population in a vulnerable situation. In the legislative arena, the configuration of the new Federal Congress reveals a landscape where old slogans of unity and dialogue are replaced by a constant struggle for power. The arrival of new leadership within parliamentary groups does not guarantee a change in the dynamic, as governance will require a shift in attitudes. However, it is uncertain whether these new leaders will be able to maintain their autonomy in an environment where pressure from the Executive is palpable. On the other hand, political activity is not limited to the struggle for control. Events like the "Race for a Cause" organized by AMACARGA demonstrate that there are spaces where civil society seeks to contribute positively. As politics becomes more polarized, initiatives that promote solidarity and community support are more necessary than ever. Ultimately, the history of Mexican politics is filled with cycles where absolute power has led to corruption and social discontent. The key to breaking this cycle lies not only in a vigorous opposition but also in an informed and active citizenry. Only then can the illusion that power is an end in itself be shattered and, instead, transformed into a means for the common good.