**AMLO to Publish Judicial Reform Before End of Term; Workers Block SCJN Access**
On August 29, 2024, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announced his intention to publish the reform of the Federal Judiciary (PJF) in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) before his administration concludes on September 30, 2024. However, he emphasized that the timeline for this reform depends on both the Congress of the Union and the state congresses.
“Yes, but it will depend on the Congress,” the President said when asked if he planned to sign and publish the judicial reform before the end of his term. He urged legislators to meticulously handle the legislative process to prevent the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) from invalidating changes made to the Constitution.
“We have to be very careful with the process because otherwise, it might be nullified,” he warned, referencing previous instances where SCJN invalidated laws for procedural reasons.
During his morning press conference at the National Palace, López Obrador stressed the importance of taking additional precautions during the legislative process. “Ensure that every step is followed properly to avoid nullifications by the Court. It seems like a joke, but it’s not; they’re capable of many things,” he added.
Later that day, workers from the Federal Judiciary and the SCJN blocked access to the Supreme Court as a form of protest against the judicial reform. Various national media outlets reported that the protesters blocked entry to everyone, including the justices, although public sessions were scheduled.
Protesters formed a human chain at the court’s entrance but allowed SCJN Chief Justice Norma Lucía Piña Hernández to enter, cheering her with shouts of “You’re not alone!”
Ricardo Monreal Ávila, the future coordinator of Morena’s parliamentary group in the Chamber of Deputies, announced that the judicial reform could be debated and voted upon during the first week of September 2024. He highlighted the legislative procedure to be strictly followed to ensure the reform has full legal effect.
Monreal emphasized the need for dialogue with all political forces, stating that the discussion and potential approval could take place by early September.
In the upper house, Senator Elect Moisés Ignacio Mier Velasco mentioned that the Senate would receive the judicial reform proposal during the first half of September 2024, adhering to all regulatory procedures.
**Further Developments on Mexican Judicial Reform**
In addition to the recent announcement by President López Obrador regarding the judicial reform, there have been various reactions and further implications discussed in recent news:
1. **Political Reactions:**
The proposed judicial reform has sparked significant political debate. Critics argue that the changes may concentrate power within the executive branch, undermining judicial independence. Supporters believe the reforms are necessary to make the judiciary more efficient and less corrupt.
2. **Public Protests and Support:**
Public opinion is divided. Several demonstrations have been organized either in support of or against the reform. Proponents insist that the reform will lead to a fairer judicial system, while detractors fear it might reduce the judiciary’s autonomy.
3. **Congressional Discussions:**
The Senate and Chamber of Deputies are preparing for rigorous debates. Several opposition members are expected to propose amendments to ensure that the judiciary’s independence is preserved.
4. **Impact on Judicial Processes:**
Legal experts have weighed in on potential impacts. Some argue the changes could expedite judicial processes, while others worry about the procedural integrity and checks and balances within the government.
For ongoing updates and more detailed analysis on the judicial reform developments in Mexico, follow our dedicated coverage on TJGringo.com.
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Be sure to watch this space for more comprehensive news and views on this significant political development.