Claudia Sheinbaum followed the example of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in her dealings with the neocharrismo labor movement and was honored as a special guest at the XV National Congress of CATEM. There, she was greeted with a new corrido performed by mariachis. In 2022, she also had the honor of being a “special guest” at a congress of the Autonomous Confederation of Workers and Employees of Mexico (CATEM) at the Mexico City Arena, led by the former PRI member and controversial labor leader Pedro Haces.
Back then, the labor center proudly boasted of having more than two million members in 1,174 affiliated unions, effectively weakening the ranks of the veteran CTM and CROC. Today, this labor wing of Morena, established 15 years ago, claims a membership of about 7 million across 1,192 labor organizations spanning various sectors. Just as in 2022, Claudia Sheinbaum, the 4T presidential candidate, graced the central’s Ordinary National Congress, receiving accolades and praise.
In response to the warm welcome from the labor leader, Sheinbaum announced a formal coalition with the labor center and expressed her commitment to defending workers’ wages and benefits, emphasizing the importance of unity.
During the event, a mariachi band appeared, presenting a corrido dedicated to Haces and Senator Ricardo Monreal. Despite a minor mix-up by the singer regarding Sheinbaum’s previous positions, the atmosphere remained celebratory as Sheinbaum was serenaded with traditional Mexican music upon her entrance to the Mexico City Arena.
Although the venue had some empty seats in the VIP area, the enthusiasm of attendees from different states, chanting slogans to support their regions, filled the air. Sheinbaum received support from various political figures, including Mario Delgado, national leader of Morena, and several governors.
Pedro Haces highlighted López Obrador’s initiatives, particularly the historic increases in the minimum wage, and reiterated his commitment to the 4T and Sheinbaum’s candidacy. Sheinbaum, in turn, received a set of CATEM committees dedicated to defending the Fourth Transformation.
The event concluded with Mario Delgado’s closing remarks, marking the end of a day filled with discussions on modern unionism and the expansion of CATEM’s influence even in non-traditional labor sectors. Participants were treated to traditional music and refreshments to maintain their spirits throughout the proceedings. Pedro Haces Pedro Haces
