Mexico's Controversial UNESCO Ambassador Appointment Sparks Outcry in Congress

Mexico City – The appointment of Juan Antonio Ferrer, former head of the Institute of Health for Welfare (Insabi), as Mexico's new ambassador to UNESCO in Paris, France, has ignited a significant political controversy. Ferrer's nomination, announced by the government, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures and analysts due to his previous record. During his tenure at Insabi, Ferrer oversaw the dissolution of the Popular Insurance program and the subsequent creation of Insabi, which critics argue led to a substantial decline in healthcare services for millions of Mexicans and widespread medicine shortages across the country. Official figures cited in reports indicate that approximately 30 million citizens were left without adequate health services following these changes. Furthermore, allegations have surfaced regarding the awarding of contracts to associates of President López Obrador's family during Ferrer's leadership. The contentious nature of the appointment was underscored during the ratification process in Congress. Senator Lilly Téllez, a prominent opposition voice, vehemently protested Ferrer's nomination. During her address, she utilized a megaphone to voice her objections, leading to a heated exchange where other legislators from the ruling PT and Morena parties reportedly cut her microphone cable to silence her protest. The incident highlighted the deep divisions surrounding the government's decision to reward a public official whose previous role is widely perceived as a failure by his detractors. The move to appoint Ferrer to such a prestigious international post, despite his controversial domestic record, continues to be a focal point of public and political debate in Mexico.