**Judge Orders AMLO to Remove Judicial Reform Publication from Official Gazette**
On September 23, 2024, Nancy Juárez Salas, head of the Nineteenth District Court in the State of Veracruz, granted a definitive suspension to a worker from the Federal Judiciary (PJF) against the publication of the judicial reform decree in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF).
The judge requested assistance from the Thirteenth District Court for Administrative Matters in Mexico City to notify those responsible and deliver this resolution to the relevant authorities. In her ruling, Juárez Salas argued that prioritizing public order and social interest arbitrarily over human rights would violate the first constitutional article.
The decision noted that the responsible authorities, including the President of Mexico and the director of the DOF, must remove the published reform decree. The federal judge emphasized that failing to grant the precautionary measure would undermine the principles governing judicial independence and the delivery of justice, including impartiality, objectivity, professionalism, and the separation of powers.
The judge further explained that while legislative procedures should not be halted, ensuring that constitutional reforms adhere to human rights standards is equally crucial. The publication in the DOF was insufficient to deny the precautionary measure, highlighting the importance of good law and social interest to restore the complainant’s rights without legal or material impediments.
Juárez Salas clarified that the resolution was issued independently and in compliance with the separation of powers. Notably, the President and the DOF director did not submit their preliminary reports despite being notified.
Given the urgency of the matter and the alleged human rights violations, the judge mandated immediate notification and enforcement of her order to the responsible authorities.
President López Obrador, alongside President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, signed the judicial reform decree on September 15, 2024, stating in a video that the Constitution requires the Executive to publish the reform, which was approved by both chambers of Congress and a majority of state legislatures. The decree was published digitally in the DOF, outlining 14 reforms, six additions, and three repeals to 23 constitutional articles.
**Related News: New Controversy Over Judicial Reform Shakeup**
In another recent development, controversies continue to surround AMLO’s judicial reform efforts. Critics argue that the reforms could undermine judicial independence, while supporters claim they are essential for improving efficiency and accountability within the judiciary.
Analysts have pointed out that the rapid pace and manner of these reforms might lead to constitutional challenges and further legal battles. Many legal experts are concerned about the potential long-term impacts on Mexico’s legal system and argue for a more transparent and deliberative process.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some praising the reforms as long-overdue updates and others raising alarms about possible overreach by the Executive branch. As public debate intensifies, the future of these judicial reforms remains uncertain, highlighting the complex interplay between legal norms, political will, and societal values in Mexico’s evolving democracy.