Eight justices of Mexico’s Supreme Court have announced their decision to step down from their positions instead of participating in the upcoming judicial elections mandated by a recent judicial overhaul. The move comes following a controversial reform passed last month, requiring all judges in Mexico to be elected.
The resignations were submitted by Supreme Court President and seven other justices, while the remaining three justices have expressed their intent to compete in the upcoming elections. Previously, justices were appointed by the Senate.
The initiative, spearheaded by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and supported by his successor Claudia Sheinbaum, aims to combat corruption within the judicial system. However, critics argue that the reform could compromise the independence of the courts and make them more susceptible to political influence.
Before the justices' resignations, the lower chamber of Congress passed another constitutional amendment to safeguard reforms like the judicial overhaul from legal challenges. The amendment received 343 votes in favor and 129 against, following its approval by the Senate.
Various business sectors, including the Mexican Employers’ Association, Coparmex, have expressed concerns that the changes could undermine the rule of law and jeopardize citizens' rights. The association warned that the initiative could endanger the fundamental guarantees that have long protected the populace.
During his tenure, López Obrador frequently clashed with the judiciary over rulings that struck down some of his policies. His successor, Sheinbaum, has continued to challenge the courts, suggesting that justices who fail to resign before the registration deadline for judicial candidates risk losing their pensions.
The Supreme Court is expected to address legal challenges to the recent constitutional amendments in the coming days, as Mexico navigates through significant changes in its judicial system.
