### Implementation of Judicial Reform in Baja California: “We Are Ready to Work,” says Fragoso
Alejandro Isaac Fragoso López, President of the Superior Court of Justice of Baja California, has expressed the judiciary’s willingness to implement a proposed reform to the federal judicial system, which is currently awaiting a Senate vote. Speaking at a meeting of the Tijuana Bar Association, Fragoso López elaborated on the plan to facilitate the alleged reform, which involves selecting judges, magistrates, and ministers through a popular vote.
Approved by Senate commissions on September 8, the judicial reform initiative is now undergoing the first reading in the Senate as of September 10. “Should it pass, it will need to go through the state congresses for further approval and subsequent publication. We will examine the transitional provisions to understand the conditions given to states for legislative adjustments,” said Fragoso López.
The reform, backed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, aims to ensure that judges are more attuned to societal needs. Fragoso López emphasized the importance of maintaining collaboration with Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and the XXV Baja California Legislature to adapt the regional laws accordingly. He assured the citizens that the candidates for judicial positions would undergo thorough evaluation and regulation.
“This reform stems from the necessity for judges to be receptive to societal needs. We are dedicated to this implementation, in partnership with the governor and the legislature, to guarantee that future judicial operators retain their autonomy while being more sensitive to the community,” Fragoso López asserted.
Marko Cortés Mendoza, head of the National Action Party and a sitting senator, argued that supporting the president’s reform could undermine the rule of law by politicizing justice and potentially allowing organized crime to influence the election of judicial officials. Fragoso López advised that the secondary laws related to this reform should be analyzed cautiously to mitigate such risks.
In closing, Fragoso López highlighted his direct channel of communication with the governor, who supports a well-functioning judicial system that respects the judicial career path without partisan intervention. “It’s important to note that this reform does not allow for partisan campaigning, ensuring the judicial candidates are not subjected to street-level political rallying,” he concluded.
### Related News: National Response to Judicial Reform Proposal
As the debate over judicial reform intensifies, reactions from various states and political factions reveal a complex landscape. On a national scale, numerous legal experts and politicians have voiced both support and concern.
In Mexico City, several high-profile lawyers issued a statement warning that the reform could threaten judicial independence. Meanwhile, communities in other states are organizing public forums to discuss the implications of electing judges through a popular vote.
Additionally, a recent report from legal scholars suggests that while the reform could democratize the judiciary, it also poses risks if not meticulously regulated. The report stresses the need for strong secondary legislation to preserve judicial independence while increasing accountability.
As the Senate continues deliberations, the nationwide discourse underscores the profound significance of this reform, from both legal and societal perspectives. Whether it will pave the way for a more responsive judicial system or introduce new challenges remains to be seen.