The recent assembly of the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) concluded in deadlock, revealing deep-seated divisions within the union. After eight hours of intense discussion, no unified response was reached regarding the Mexican government's proposal presented on Wednesday. The core issue dividing the CNTE is whether to participate in or boycott the upcoming judicial elections on Sunday. Delegations have opted to consult their bases on the path forward. However, a consensus was reached to hold a march this Friday at 9 AM, starting from the Angel of Independence along Mexico City's Avenida Reforma, heading to the Zócalo. This protest will extend to various states with planned blockades.

While the threat of boycotting Sunday's elections seemed mitigated earlier in the week, it has resurfaced, driven by the union's more radical factions. "We are not in a position of boycott," stated Pedro Hernández, the spokesperson for Mexico City, after concluding meetings with governance, education, and ISSSTE officials. The precise delegations advocating for a more aggressive stance remain unclear, yet the forceful rhetoric from Oaxaca's representative suggests this region might be spearheading the defiance. Oaxaca, with 95% state support, remains a significant player, being the only delegation still active in Avenida Reforma's mobilizations on Thursday.

The government's response has been largely silent, save for reiterations of Wednesday's negotiation points and a brief expression of concern from Education Secretary Mario Delgado on Enfoque Noticias. He highlighted the injustice faced by "children without classes," emphasizing that the only alternative plan hinges on the union's return to reason and dialogue. President Claudia Sheinbaum refrained from commenting in her morning briefing, awaiting the CNTE's next move.

The government's formal and public invitation aimed at bringing the union to the negotiation table before the judicial elections has inadvertently fractured the CNTE's internal consensus. Nonetheless, it has not prompted separate actions. The planned mobilizations on Friday will unite all delegations in the capital, seeking support from those remaining in the states. This represents a final show of strength before a weekend that promises to be pivotal and fraught with challenges for all parties involved.