Mexico Pushes Controversial Judicial Reform Amidst Opposition and Strikes

Mexico's lower house of Congress approved a controversial judicial reform, a significant move for outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Despite fierce opposition and strikes by judicial workers, the reform, which calls for the election of judges by popular vote and reduces the number of Supreme Court judges, is expected to pass in the Senate.

In a marathon session, Mexico's lower house of Congress on Wednesday morning approved a controversial judicial reform, marking a significant milestone for outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Despite vehement opposition, the ruling party Morena managed to pass the reform, igniting a strike among judicial workers, straining U.S.-Mexico relations, and creating financial market jitters.

The debate started on Tuesday afternoon and stretched for more than 12 hours, concluding with 359 votes in favor and 135 against. The reform now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to pass due to Morena's strong majority. The constitutional amendment involves electing over 7,000 judges and magistrates, including Supreme Court judges, via popular vote.

Lopez Obrador asserts that the reform is crucial for judicial accountability and curbing corruption. The changes include reducing Supreme Court judges from 11 to nine, shortening their terms to 12 years, and halving the required work experience for ministerial roles. Critics argue the reform ignores key issues like prosecutorial and police corruption, and rushed the process through a single-session debate.

(With inputs from agencies.)