MEXICO CITY — Mexico has issued a diplomatic note protesting perceived interference from the United States after the American ambassador publicly criticized a proposed judicial overhaul that would mandate elections for all judges.
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador described the remarks as “disrespectful to our national sovereignty” and asserted they meddled in Mexico’s domestic affairs. He added, “I hope this will not happen again.”
Recently, the U.S. Ambassador raised concerns that the proposed changes could represent a “risk” to Mexico’s democracy, potentially threatening the long-standing commercial relationship between both nations. Critics are alarmed that these constitutional changes may aim to undermine the independence of the judiciary.
In the diplomatic note, Mexico’s government emphasized that the ambassador’s statements “reflect unacceptable interference and a violation of Mexico’s sovereignty.”
The proposed requirement for judges to seek election has sparked criticism from investors and financial institutions, contributing to a decline in the Mexican peso in currency markets. Morgan Stanley has downgraded its investment rating for Mexico, citing increased risk due to the overhaul, while Citibanamex warned that its approval could lead to the “cancellation of liberal democracy.”
“Democracies cannot function without a strong, independent, and non-corrupt judicial branch,” the ambassador noted. He stressed that any judicial reform must include safeguards to reinforce the judiciary rather than subject it to political pressures.
He further indicated that the proposed overhaul could enable cartels and other malicious actors to exploit inexperienced judges motivated by politics, potentially creating long-lasting economic and political instability.
This proposal has also incited strikes among federal court workers and judges across various regions in Mexico this week.
If enacted, the measures would allow virtually anyone with a law degree and minimal experience to run for a judgeship through popular vote. Should the number of candidates exceed expectations, final contestants would essentially be chosen through a random drawing.
Following significant electoral victories by López Obrador’s Morena party, academics, financial institutions, and court employees caution that such changes could lead to a judiciary filled with politically biased judges. This scenario could allow the ruling party to gain control over all three branches of government, undermining essential checks and balances.
The proposal awaits approval from Mexico’s new congress, which will convene on September 1, where Morena and its allies command a majority. President López Obrador’s term ends on September 30, and President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum has also supported the initiative.
López Obrador, known for his populist stance against independent regulatory bodies, has frequently clashed with the judiciary. He views judges as part of a “mafia” opposing him and claims the proposal aims to eliminate corruption. He has publicly criticized the judicial system and ignored court orders.
While the idea of combating corruption within Mexico’s judiciary is welcomed, there are serious concerns over the direct election of judges, which the ambassador highlighted as a potential threat to the operational integrity of Mexico’s democracy and to the stability of economic relations among the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
