2025 Volume 42 Issue 1 Pages 32-49
This paper explains the judicial reform in the context of the ongoing constitutional reform debate in Mexico, which commenced in 2024. Following an exhaustive examination of the cause, political process, and consequence of the debate, the paper aims to elucidate the implications for the democratic backsliding of Mexico. In the federal elections held in June 2024, the constitutional reform that the AMLO administration had been promoting to realize the "Fourth Transformation" emerged as the central issue. During the election campaign, a fierce confrontation emerged between those in favor of and those against constitutional reform, which resulted in a significant division within Mexican society. In the election, Claudia Sheinbaum, a candidate from the ruling National Regeneration Movement (Morena), was elected with a significant majority. Consequently, it became evident that the ruling coalition would secure the qualified majority (exceeding two-thirds) necessary to amend the constitution in both houses of the federal congress. The government promptly initiated reforms to the judiciary, with a particular emphasis on introducing popular elections for judges. In response to this reform, judicial officials who were opposed to the reform went on strike, and a protest movement centered on university students spread nationwide. However, the judicial reform was realized before the new government took office in October. Those who oppose constitutional reform argue that it will weaken the judiciary's ability to check the executive branch and lead to democratic backsliding. However, an analysis of democracy indicators reveals that while the level of free and fair elections and checks and balances declined during the AMLO administration, the level of citizen participation in politics increased. This suggests that it is premature to conclude that democracy is regressing in Mexico.
