Locations Affected: Mexico
Outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s judicial reform, which would elect about 7,000 judges, including the Supreme Court and local judges, by popular vote, faces widespread opposition. The reform was proposed on 05 February and passed by the Chamber of Deputies. A final vote is set in the Senate on 11 September. In response, judicial workers have been on a nationwide strike since 19 August, with protests around the Senate in Mexico City.
Criticisms against the proposed reforms
Opponents argue the reform would politicize the judiciary, compromise the separation of powers, and expose the system to criminal influence and unqualified candidates, weakening its integrity.
Ongoing protests and reaction by foreign governments
- On 10 September, protestors broke into the Senate session hall, forcing lawmakers to suspend debate and evacuate. One person was injured.
- Previous protests on 03 September forced Senate meetings to be moved to a sports complex.
- The strike has disrupted federal court operations.
- The US and Canadian ambassadors have warned the reform could harm trade with Mexico by undermining investor confidence in the country’s legal system.
- President Obrador has halted diplomatic relations with both embassies in response to the criticism.
Implications of the judicial reform and protests
More protests are likely as the Senate vote approaches, with potential disruptions around government buildings. Protests could spread to cities like Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, and Tijuana. A prolonged strike could delay court proceedings, increasing case backlogs and hampering access to justice for citizens and businesses. Foreign criticism may strain international relations with more countries. Organizations are advised to monitor developments and prepare contingency plans.
