Protesters force pause on Mexico's judicial overhaul

Senate session was suspended as protesters called lawmakers "traitors" over a reform critics say weakens rule of law

MEXICO CITY:

Protesters entered Mexico's Senate on Tuesday, disrupting discussions on a contentious judicial reform. The session was suspended as demonstrators filled the chamber, labelling lawmakers "traitors" in response to the reform, which has already sparked extensive protests. Critics argue that the reform could weaken Mexico's rule of law.

Mexico’s key trading partners, the United States and Canada, expressed concerns that the reform could harm the USMCA trade agreement and deter investment.

The reform, proposed by outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, aims to introduce the election of over 6,500 judges and magistrates, including Supreme Court justices, by popular vote.

Lopez Obrador and his successor, Claudia Sheinbaum, have defended the proposal as necessary for accountability and combating corruption.

However, opponents have criticised it as a move to consolidate power by the Morena party. During the debate, opposition lawmakers accused the ruling bloc of using questionable tactics to gain the required two-thirds majority. The final vote, expected early Wednesday, is anticipated to be close, with the ruling coalition one senator short.

There is speculation that PAN Senator Miguel Angel Yunes has defected to the ruling bloc. While the Senate was in session, Yunes requested medical leave, and his father, standing in as his substitute, did not reveal his voting intentions, though opposition lawmakers expect him to support the reform.

The reform also seeks to reduce the number of Supreme Court justices from 11 to nine, limit their terms to 12 years, and lower the required years of experience from 10 to five.