The Mexican Chamber of Deputies has approved a controversial judicial reform bill, proposed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, with 359 votes in favor and 135 against after more than 17 hours of heated debate. The reform, which aims to allow citizens to elect Supreme Court justices and other judges directly, has now moved to the Senate for further consideration and potential approval.The bill proposes significant changes to Mexico’s judicial system, including the popular election of judges, magistrates, and Supreme Court ministers, as well as reducing the number of Supreme Court justices to nine and establishing a 12-year term limit. President López Obrador argues that these changes are necessary to combat corruption in the judiciary and give citizens more control over the justice system.However, the reform has faced widespread criticism and protests. Opposition lawmakers, legal experts, and international observers argue that it poses a serious threat to the independence of the judiciary and the separation of powers. Critics also express concerns about the potential influence of organized crime on judicial elections and the erosion of democratic institutions.Despite these objections, the reform has gained support from the ruling Morena party and its allies. President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum defended the reform, stating it would lead to ‘more democracy and freedom in Mexico’ and would not negatively impact trade relationships or private investment.The Senate is now preparing to discuss and potentially approve the reform. Gerardo Fernández Noroña, president of the Senate, announced that the bill is expected to be presented to the Senate Plenary on September 10 or 11. Morena and its allies are reportedly just one vote short of the required two-thirds majority needed for approval.As Mexico stands at this crucial juncture, the international community watches closely. The United States Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, has expressed concerns about the reform’s potential impact on US-Mexico relations and the economy. The coming days will be critical in determining the future direction of Mexico’s judicial system and its broader democratic institutions.
Key points
- Mexican Chamber of Deputies approves controversial judicial reform with 359 votes in favor and 135 against.
- The reform proposes popular election of judges and Supreme Court justices, sparking concerns about judicial independence.
- Senate expected to vote on the reform next week, with Morena party one vote short of required supermajority.
- International observers, including US Ambassador, express concerns about the reform’s impact on democracy and economy.
Contradictions👾While President López Obrador and supporters claim the reform will combat corruption and increase democracy, critics argue it threatens judicial independence and could increase organized crime influence.
👾President-elect Sheinbaum asserts the reform won’t affect trade relationships or private investment, but financial markets and international observers have expressed concerns about economic impacts.
