Lopez Obrador Defends Judicial Reform Amid U.S. Criticism

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and his successor Claudia Sheinbaum defended a controversial judicial reform plan against criticism from U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar. The reform, which involves electing judges by popular vote, has raised concerns about the influence of organized crime and potential risks to U.S.-Mexico trade relations.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum defended a judicial reform plan on Monday, countering U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar's criticism that it threatens Mexican democracy. They argued the U.S. was interfering in domestic affairs by voicing such concerns.

A committee in Mexico's lower house was set to review the plan, which includes electing judges by popular vote, with the potential for a full-body debate by early September. Lopez Obrador asserted that U.S. comments constituted interference in Mexico's internal matters.

Ambassador Salazar had labeled the reform a risk to Mexican democracy, suggesting it opened the judiciary to organized crime and jeopardized U.S.-Mexico trade ties. Lopez Obrador emphasized national sovereignty and maintained that a break in trade relations was unlikely. Sheinbaum reassured that the reform aims to enhance democracy and that Mexico would continue to dialogue with its trade partners.

(With inputs from agencies.)