SCARCELY a month has passed since the general elections in Mexico, and despite calling for a recount which no-one except hard-core conservatives takes seriously (when you’re trounced two to one the only rational reaction is to examine the reasons for your failure), the opposition coalition has yet to come up with a coherent strategy.

Outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, with three months left in office, is more popular than ever and tours the country supervising public works he wants finished before leaving office. 

He is frequently accompanied by his successor, virtual president-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, whose popularity also continues to grow. Sheinbaum’s firm and methodical preparation for assuming office wins plaudits from business associations, diplomats and social organisations alike.