Mexican voters are gearing up for a monumental election happening this Sunday, marking the first time the country will elect more than 2,600 judges and magistrates. This includes pivotal roles in the Supreme Court and various federal, state, and local tribunals. The election signals a shift from a traditional appointment system to a public voting model, intended to make the judiciary more democratic while addressing longstanding issues like nepotism and corruption.
The reform, pushed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and supported by his successor Claudia Sheinbaum, emerged from a contentious constitutional amendment debate led by the governing Morena party. López Obrador's motivation stems from frustrations with the Supreme Court, which he believes has blocked several of his initiatives and flagship projects.
While supporters view this election as a chance to empower citizens, critics warn it could lead to inexperienced candidates gaining judicial power and potential influence from criminal organizations, including cartels. This massive transition represents a significant risk and an even greater opportunity to reshape democracy in Mexico, making it one of the most ambitious judicial reforms attempted by a major democracy. As voters prepare, the world watches closely to see how this gamble with democracy unfolds.
