Can Mexico Afford a People's Judiciary?
Mexico’s judicial reform is facing intense debate. The proposed popular election of judges has divided experts and politicians. Critics warn of politicization and potential for unqualified officials.
In Mexico, the national conversation on judicial reform has quietly and not-so-quietly stirred into action. The most buzz-worthy proposal on the table? A direct citizen election of judges, magistrates, and ministers. Yes, you read that right: the popular election of judiciary members—think "American Idol," but for judges, with democracy dialing in votes.
With forums and dialogues convening in almost every corner of the nation (Jalisco, Puebla, Veracruz, Coahuila—roll call!), there’s no shortage of opinions on how this would look in practice. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has championed the notion with fervor, seemingly eager to pull back the curtain on the judiciary and let the people vote for those black-robed figures who have, until now, been selected behind closed legal doors.
