**Judicial Workers Storm Baja California Congress**
On September 11, 2024, a large group of Federal Judicial workers protested outside the Baja California Congress, where a significant constitutional reform related to the Judicial Branch was scheduled to be discussed. This reform, approved by the Senate on September 10, aims to change the process of selecting judges, magistrates, and ministers to a system where they would be chosen by popular vote.
The protest began around 1 PM when demonstrators, who had initially blocked the Oriente Border Crossing to the United States, moved to the Congress. At the legislative premises, they demanded entry, which was denied. Inside, officers from the State Citizen Security Forces (FESC) were on standby with protective gear and shields.
The protest escalated when one of the judicial workers broke a side door, sparking a confrontation. Protesters claimed that an officer struck one of their members, causing a head injury that required hospitalization. The situation intensified due to the numerical superiority of the protesters and the inaction of legislators, who remained in a JUCOPO meeting despite being aware of the escalating conflict.
Both sides accused the other of initiating the clash, resulting in injuries on both sides. The most severe injury was suffered by a Federal Judicial employee. As the confrontation grew, trash cans and ladders were hurled, and the protesters gained ground, eventually breaking into the Benito Juárez GarcÃa session hall.
Chants echoed through the legislative building while the overwhelmed officers retreated. Once the situation settled, demonstrators demanded that legislators address their grievances. Only opposition deputies came forward initially. After several tense moments, administrator Victor Hugo Navarro entered the hall and proposed forming a committee to discuss the issues with the deputies.
**Further Developments on Judicial Reform Protests**
**Judicial Reform Sparks Further Protests in Baja California**
Following the initial event on September 11, tensions have continued to rise around the proposed judicial reforms in Baja California. Supporters and opponents of the reform have been vocal, leading to further protests and discussions throughout the state.
On September 12, additional demonstrations took place outside several key government buildings in Tijuana and Mexicali, with protestors voicing their concerns over the popular vote system for selecting judicial officials. Critics argue that such a system could lead to politicization of the judiciary, undermining its independence and integrity.
Local law enforcement has increased their presence around government buildings to prevent further escalations, although smaller protests have continued sporadically. Several civil rights groups have called for peaceful dialogue between the government and the judicial employees to find a satisfactory resolution.
In response to the unrest, the Governor of Baja California has scheduled a special session to address the concerns of both the judicial employees and the public. The session will include representatives from the judiciary, the legislature, and civil society organizations to discuss potential compromises and amendments to the proposed reform.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for further discussions in the coming days. As the debate continues, the focus remains on maintaining peace and finding a resolution that upholds the independence of the judicial system while addressing public concerns about transparency and accountability.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story.