Mexico's Senate Overhauls Judiciary Amidst Controversy

Mexico's Senate has passed a controversial constitutional amendment to elect judges, sparking fears of politicizing the judiciary and jeopardizing democracy. The legislation saw significant protests and required support from opposition members. It now awaits ratification by state legislatures, where the governing party expects to secure the necessary approvals.

In a dramatic session early Wednesday, Mexico's Senate approved a controversial overhaul of the country's judiciary, clearing a major hurdle for a constitutional revision that mandates the election of judges.

Critics argue this move will inject politics into the judicial system and potentially threaten Mexico's democratic fabric. The vote followed intense protests, including Senate interruptions by demonstrators unhappy with the ruling Morena party's apparent control over the legislative outcome.

The legislation passed the lower chamber last week and faced its stiffest test in the Senate, where it needed opposition defections to succeed. The revision will now require ratification from 17 of Mexico's 32 state legislatures, a task Morena is optimistic about completing given its recent electoral gains.

(With inputs from agencies.)