Municipal elections and democracy in Totonac territory: Mecatlan

Elections in the municipality of Mecatl'an in the Totonacapan region of Veracruz are distinct from election processes in other parts of Mexico, mainly because of the influence of local normative principles in the selection of candidates and parties. This article describes how the current electoral system, based on the system of political parties in the Totonac region, promotes an inequitable situation in which Indigenous autonomy is eroded. This article presents an analysis and discussion of the relevance of Indigenous normative and ethical systems in strengthening a local and national democracy that respects the pluricultural composition of Mexico.