Mexico enacts controversial judicial reforms amid national debate

Mexico is set to implement significant judicial reforms aimed at transforming its judiciary from an appointment-based system to one where judges are elected by the public. This change is intended to combat corruption within the judiciary and ensure that it aligns more closely with the will of the people. The reforms will affect all judges, from lower courts to the Supreme Court, with the requirement of a law degree and varying years of experience depending on the court level. Current judges, approximately 7,000, will lose their positions but can run for election. The reforms come in response to a justice system plagued by high levels of impunity, with over 90% of crimes going unprosecuted in 2022. Critics, including legal experts, express concerns that the new electoral process for judges could be susceptible to corruption and may undermine judicial independence. The Supreme Court judges will serve terms based on public voting results, which raises questions about the influence of public opinion on judicial decisions. The first election under these reforms is scheduled for June 1, where half of the judiciary, including the entire Supreme Court, will be elected. Organizing such a large-scale election presents significant logistical challenges. Additionally, the immediate impact on the justice system is anticipated, as the reforms could alter how justice is administered in Mexico. The typical salary for a Supreme Court member exceeds $10,000 a month, highlighting the financial stakes involved in these positions. As the country navigates these changes, the effectiveness and integrity of the new system will be closely scrutinized by both the public and legal experts.