Mexico City rallies for president’s judicial reforms in final month

In Mexico City, tens of thousands gathered to support President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's judicial reform plan as he entered his final month in office. The president called for a symbolic vote, where a majority showed support for a controversial proposal to elect judges by popular vote. Critics argue that this could undermine judicial independence and lead to politically biased rulings. Protesters opposed to the reforms also took to the streets, emphasizing the importance of justice in the country. The proposed reforms include the elimination of seven autonomous bodies, such as the National Institute of Transparency, which has raised concerns about the potential erosion of democratic checks and balances. The governing coalition, led by López's Morena party, holds a majority in Congress, which is expected to vote on these constitutional changes soon. This has sparked significant debate and legal challenges regarding the fast-tracked process of the reforms. Opponents of the reforms have expressed their discontent through protests, with slogans highlighting the need for justice in Mexico. The Chamber of Deputies was set to convene for its first session since the June elections, where the Morena party secured substantial victories. The outcome of the vote in the Chamber will be crucial, as it will then move to the Senate for further consideration. As the political landscape shifts, the implications of these judicial reforms could have lasting effects on Mexico's legal system and democratic institutions. The ongoing discussions and protests reflect a deep divide in public opinion regarding the future of justice and governance in the country.