## AMLO Denies Economic Instability Due to Judicial Reform; JUFED Ensures Free Access to Senate
On September 7, 2024, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador firmly rebuffed allegations from his opposition, which claimed that a proposed overhaul of the Federal Judicial System (PJF) would lead to economic instability in Mexico. Speaking at the inauguration of the Jaguar Park and the East Coast Museum in Tulum, Quintana Roo, López Obrador contended that these claims were baseless and intended to confuse the public.
“Absolutely not,” expressed López Obrador, arguing against the notion of economic instability. “We still have about 20 days, and they are trying to cause confusion because we aim to carry out a judicial reform. What fear could there possibly be when what we seek is the eradication of corruption,” he emphasized.
López Obrador highlighted that the public would play a crucial role in purifying the judicial system. “With the people, the people are the ones who help to purify public life. As our elected president [Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo] says, with the people everything, without the people, nothing. How can we cleanse the judiciary if not with the support of the public?” he asserted.
Further, López Obrador proposed the direct election of judges by the people, similar to how other public officials are elected. “It’s a very simple formula. Just as the president, mayors, local deputies, senators, federal deputies, and governors are elected, judges should be elected by the people,” he insisted, to which the audience responded with cheers of agreement.
Simultaneously, Juana Fuentes Velázquez, National Director of the National Association of Circuit Magistrates and District Judges of the Federal Judiciary (JUFED), assured that they would not block senators from entering the Senate on September 8, 2024, for the discussion and evaluation of the judicial reform in the Senate chamber.
“Amidst rumors that protests around the Senate prevent access, JUFED, along with associated organizations, confirms that we have withdrawn from all access points to ensure free passage,” stated the association.
In support of transparency, JUFED announced that a notary public would certify the free access to the Senate during the legislative session. “We invite media representatives to join us for this verification. Let it be clear, we are not hindering the legislative process,” Fuentes Velázquez emphasized.
JUFED maintained its stance against the judicial reform, urging legislators to prioritize the future of the Republic and not to be swayed by political pressures.
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## Additional News on the Judicial Reform
### Similar Judiciary Reforms in Latin America and Their Outcomes
The proposed judicial reform in Mexico has sparked comparisons to similar reforms attempted across Latin America. Countries like Brazil and Argentina have implemented judicial reforms with mixed outcomes that affect their political and economic landscapes.
#### Brazil’s Judicial Reforms
In Brazil, judicial reforms aimed at reducing corruption have led to several high-profile arrests and convictions, including politicians and business leaders. However, these reforms also faced substantial backlash and allegations of being politically motivated, sometimes leading to significant political instability.
#### Argentina’s Judicial Adjustments
Argentina’s judicial reforms under President Alberto Fernández faced criticism for allegedly trying to protect political allies and undermine the judiciary’s independence. Despite these concerns, the reforms did lead to some administrative improvements in the judicial system.
### Economic Impacts of Judicial Reforms
Historical analyses suggest a varied economic impact of such reforms. A transparent and efficient judicial system is generally seen as vital for economic stability and attractiveness to foreign investment. However, during transition periods, economies may experience instability due to uncertainties and opposition from various political and business sectors.
A balanced and carefully implemented judicial reform can strengthen the rule of law, which is pivotal for long-term economic growth and political stability. Mexico’s proposed judicial reform will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, with many stakeholders advocating for a transparent and inclusive process.