In a dramatic turn of events on Tuesday, protesters stormed Mexico’s Senate, halting discussions on a contentious judicial reform. Demonstrators, who labeled lawmakers as “traitors,” occupied the chamber in response to the reform, which has already sparked widespread protests. Critics argue that the reform could undermine Mexico’s rule of law.
The proposed reform, put forward by outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, aims to introduce popular elections for over 6,500 judges and magistrates, including Supreme Court justices. Lopez Obrador and his successor, Claudia Sheinbaum, have defended the proposal as a necessary measure for increasing accountability and tackling corruption.
However, opponents view the reform as an attempt by the Morena party to consolidate power. During the debate, opposition lawmakers accused the ruling bloc of using dubious tactics to secure the required two-thirds majority. The final vote, expected early Wednesday, is anticipated to be close, with the ruling coalition reportedly one senator short.
There is speculation that PAN Senator Miguel Angel Yunes may have defected to the ruling bloc. Yunes requested medical leave during the Senate session, and his father, who substituted for him, did not disclose his voting intentions. Opposition lawmakers suspect Yunes will support the reform.
Additionally, the reform proposes reducing the number of Supreme Court justices from 11 to nine, limiting their terms to 12 years, and decreasing the required years of experience from 10 to five.
The United States and Canada, Mexico’s key trading partners, have voiced concerns that the reform could impact the USMCA trade agreement and deter investment.
