**AMLO Publishes Constitutional Reforms Concerning National Guard and Indigenous Rights**
Andrés Manuel López Obrador, in his capacity as the Executive Federal, made public on September 30, 2024, the two final constitutional reforms of his administration through the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF). The first reform solidifies the militarization of the National Guard (GN), while the second extends the rights of indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities. Both decrees took effect on October 1, 2024, initiating a 180-day window for the Union Congress, and potentially state legislatures, to pass the necessary supplementary reforms or laws.
During his last morning press briefing, President López Obrador signed these important reforms. The first reform is connected to the formal establishment of the National Guard as an entity responsible for public security. He emphasized that the institution now comprises 135,000 members and possesses 500 facilities, including barracks, and that it’s integrated into the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), which ensures its solidity, permanence, discipline, and ethical management.
The second reform guarantees extensive rights to indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities. This reform was approved by the Union Congress, including the House of Representatives, the Senate, and 26 state legislatures. López Obrador underscored the significance of this reform, which addresses the fundamental rights of the deepest cultural roots of the nation.
The National Guard reform includes modifications to 12 constitutional articles, ensuring that its personnel, under the initiative from March 26, 2019, would have a military background but police training. The articles affected include the authority to investigate crimes within the scope of the GN’s jurisdiction. Moreover, the reform mandates coordination between the GN, police, and the Public Ministry across federal, state, and local levels to form a cohesive National Public Security System.
This reform places the GN under the SEDENA for the execution of the National Public Security Strategy. Furthermore, the National Guard members will only be subject to military tribunals, with no civilian jurisdiction allowed over military personnel, ensuring civil-military boundaries.
The constitutional changes also delineate the conditions under which the armed forces may be deployed in aid of public security, emphasizing the military’s support role and the GN’s security duties. Notably, those actively serving in the National Guard or armed forces are barred from running for President or congressional positions unless they resign a significant period before elections.
Additionally, the GN’s organizational structure and the transition details for personnel from the defunct Federal Police are clearly defined, ensuring their rights and operation continuity within the new framework.
**Secondary Article Below the Primary**
**Additional Reactions to Constitutional Reforms on National Guard and Indigenous Rights**
Numerous reactions have emerged since the announcement and publication of the constitutional reforms dedicated to the National Guard and indigenous rights. The reforms have sparked diverse opinions from political figures, human rights organizations, and local communities.
Echoing the President’s sentiments, SEDENA officials assert that the GN’s integration will bolster Mexico’s public security framework, adding rigor and discipline synonymous with military standards. Conversely, some human rights groups express concerns about militarization potentially infringing on civil liberties and the risk of abuse.
In indigenous communities, the reform has been met with guarded optimism. Leaders from these areas acknowledge the historical significance of enhanced rights but remain vigilant about the implementation at local levels. Many emphasize the need for continuous dialogue and cooperation with federal and state authorities to ensure that the newfound rights translate into actual improvements in their living conditions and autonomy.
Furthermore, the Union Congress has been urged to expedite the supplementary legislation, as the six-month timeline to finalize pertinent laws looms. Both supporters and critics underscore the importance of these laws in setting a clear, balanced path for the future operations and oversight of the GN, ensuring adherence to democratic principles while addressing security challenges.
Local legislatures are also preparing to play their part in this transition. Given the broad implications of these reforms, further debates and resolutions are anticipated across the states, aiming for a unified approach that respects the federal directives while catering to regional specifics.
Overall, while celebrating this milestone, the journey ahead involves rigorous legislative efforts and vigilant public oversight to ensure the reforms foster a safer and more inclusive Mexico.