The organization calls on the INE to ensure that electoral mechanisms are not used to restrict criticism and political satire
The organization calls on the INE to ensure that electoral mechanisms are not used to restrict criticism and political satire
Miami (September 4, 2026) – The Inter American Press Association (IAPA) expressed concern over a complaint filed by the Morena party with the National Electoral Institute (INE), seeking the removal of publications and suspension of content related to “La Casa de los Mañosos,” a political satire created by third parties using artificial intelligence and later featured in TV Azteca’s news programming.
The broadcaster described the action by Morena, the ruling party, as an “attempt at censorship,” arguing that satire and criticism are part of public debate and protected by freedom of expression. TV Azteca, part of Grupo Salinas, also said it would continue to investigate and scrutinize those in power.
“The case raises important questions about the limits of electoral authorities’ intervention in satirical, humorous and critical content, particularly when it involves public officials and political figures,” said IAPA President Pierre Manigault.
Manigault, of Evening Post Publishing Inc. in Charleston, South Carolina, added: “Electoral authorities must act within the scope of their powers and with full respect for freedom of expression. Criticism, satire and political humor, even when they may be uncomfortable for those in power, are part of democratic debate and must not become the subject of institutional censorship.”
“We are concerned about any mechanism that could restrict journalistic content or critical expression because of its political nature,” said Martha Ramos, chair of the IAPA’s Committee on Freedom of the Press and Information. “The State must guarantee an environment in which the media can inform, investigate and scrutinize those in power without fear that institutions will be used to silence those voices.”
Ramos, of Organización Editorial Mexicana (OEM), added: “Freedom of expression provides special protection for opinions, criticism and expression directed at those exercising public functions, even when such expression may be uncomfortable, provocative or controversial.”
The IAPA will continue to follow the proceedings and urged INE to ensure that any decision regarding the content fully respects freedom of expression and press freedom. The organization reiterated that criticism of those in power is an essential component of a democratic society and that no authority should become an arbiter of opinions or political satire.
The IAPA also cited a decision issued in late August by the Superior Chamber of the Federal Electoral Tribunal, which ordered the INE to eliminate rules for monitoring indirect forms of disparagement against candidates in media coverage during the 2027 elections. The Tribunal found that the rules lacked objectivity and could have a “silencing and chilling effect on free journalism.” It also warned that the rules could undermine the public’s right to receive diverse and pluralistic information.
The IAPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to defending and promoting freedom of the press and expression in the Americas. It comprises more than 1,300 publications from the western hemisphere and is based in Miami, Florida, United States.
