Mexico's Senate Halts Judicial Overhaul Debate Amid Protester Outburst

On Tuesday, Mexico's Senate paused discussions on a controversial judicial reform following a protest inside the building. The proposed changes, championed by outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, have faced significant opposition. Critics argue the reform threatens the rule of law and could impact the USMCA trade agreement.

Mexico's Senate halted discussions on a controversial judicial overhaul Tuesday after protesters stormed into the legislative building, intensifying already heated debates. Critics argue the reform, proposed by outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, could undermine the rule of law.

Senate President Jose Gerardo Fernandez suspended the session, urging lawmakers to remain calm as demonstrators chanted 'traitors' from the chamber's upper level. The reform has sparked significant uproar and protests over several weeks, with strong opposition from Mexico's major trading partners, the United States and Canada, citing potential impacts on the USMCA trade pact and future investments.

The overwatch of the constitutional reform, proposed by Lopez Obrador and backed by President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, suggests electing over 6,500 judges and magistrates, including Supreme Court judges, by popular vote. Critics have condemned it as a power consolidation move by the ruling party Morena. The Senate vote, expected to continue into early Wednesday, remains contentious, especially with speculation about opposition PAN Senator Miguel Angel Yunes switching sides to support the reform.

(With inputs from agencies.)