Thousands in Mexico Support President’s Judicial Reforms Amid Protests

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Tens of thousands of supporters rallied around President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on Sunday as he embarked on his final month in office, reiterating his call for support regarding his judicial reform plan.

In a direct challenge to his critics, López organized a symbolic vote among the crowd to gauge support for one of his most contentious initiatives: a judicial reform plan that opponents warn could undermine democratic checks and balances.

A notable moment occurred when a wave of hands rose in favor of a key proposal, which advocated for judges to be elected by popular vote. This suggestion drew particular ire from some groups concerned about potential consequences for the judicial system.

“Let our friends and neighbors in the United States internalize it,” López remarked, referring to those outside Mexico who have voiced strong objections to the proposed changes.

Detractors of the reform have raised alarms that electing judges could lead to a court system rife with political bias and inadequately trained judges. In response to the proposal, protests erupted once again on Sunday, with demonstrators holding signs proclaiming, “There’s no future without justice.” Similar protests had taken place previously on August 25.

In the meantime, Mexico’s Congress is preparing for a vote on these controversial constitutional reforms, which are expected to be addressed soon. López’s proposals include the dismantling of seven autonomous entities, such as the National Institute of Transparency.

The Chamber of Deputies convened on Sunday afternoon after the massive rally, marking its first session since the June elections, during which López’s Morena party and its allies achieved significant victories.

Critics of the reforms have raised legal objections, disputing what they characterize as a hasty procedure for pushing these changes through the system. A judge recently ruled that a discussion and vote on the reforms should not occur on that day, indicating a procedural stalemate. Following the Deputy votes, the matter will subsequently be taken up by the Senate.