The last elections reflected a crisis of confidence in institutions and the democratic process, as 40 million citizens chose not to vote. Of those who did participate, 24 million opted for alternatives other than the ruling party, while another 36 million voted for the continuity of the current Morena regime. Despite the political polarization in the country, the government maintains a "hard vote" based on social benefits and exercises control over most states, which gives it considerable leeway to promote constitutional reforms without real opposition within the government.
Main Proposals of the Judicial Reform
The judicial reform promoted by Morena includes measures that threaten the independence of the judiciary. Some of the most controversial points are:
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• Popular election of judicial officials: it is proposed that Supreme Court justices, Electoral Tribunal magistrates, and other high-level judicial officials be directly elected by popular vote, from a list proposed by the executive branch and endorsed by a majority in the legislative branch.
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• Restructuring of the Supreme Court: it is proposed to reduce the number of justices from 11 to 9, eliminating requirements such as years of experience and specialized knowledge, key elements that guarantee the quality and autonomy of judicial decisions. In addition, the Supreme Court Chambers would be eliminated, which would affect their operability.
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• Elimination of "amparo" appeals against Laws: it is contemplated to limit "amparo" appeals and injunctions against laws, preventing citizens from challenging norms that they consider contrary to their rights. This measure severely restricts the right to defense and the protection of citizens against potential excesses of the legislative branch.
Separation of powers is lost
The judicial reform in Mexico represents a direct threat to one of the fundamental principles of any republic: the separation of powers. The concentration of power in a single party and the erosion of judicial independence not only weaken the justice system but also create an environment of uncertainty and fear, where judicial decisions could be influenced or controlled by political interests.
A true Republic needs checks and balances to guarantee the freedom of its citizens.
Impact of the Reform
The centralization of power and the elimination of controls in the judicial system open the door to authoritarian practices. By allowing political power to control judges and Supreme Court justices, a system is created in which justice could serve partisan interests instead of acting in defense of individual rights and freedoms.
This reform not only reduces public trust in justice but also undermines the republican principles that Mexico has defended for decades.
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