### BC Lawmakers Conduct Zoom Session Amid Protests, Approve Judicial Reform
**By: Eduardo Villa**
*September 11, 2024*
Following a day of intense protests that escalated to physical confrontations with state police, lawmakers of Baja California’s Congress held a remote session via Zoom to approve a constitutional reform of the judiciary. The session was initially set for 2 PM but was disrupted after a group of protestors, comprising Federal Judicial Power workers, forcefully entered the legislative building.
The altercation between protestors and police included the use of batons by police and the throwing of stones and a ladder by the protestors, resulting in broken windows and damaged facilities.
After over three hours of debate, the 25 legislators cast their votes on the reform, which proposes changing the method of appointing judges, magistrates, and ministers to a popular vote system. Despite opposition’s arguments for a thorough study before approval, the reform was passed with 20 votes in favor and 5 against.
The core concerns of the opposition were centered on potential threats to judicial independence and democratic integrity, while supporters argued the reform would enhance accountability and reduce nepotism within the judicial system. Legislators from the PAN, PRI, and Movimiento Ciudadano voiced strong objections, citing risks to impartiality and democratic processes, while Morena and its allies argued the current system breeds corruption and inefficiency.
Ultimately, the reform was approved, marking a significant step towards its ratification by the 32 entities across the country.
### Secondary Article:
**National Senate Approves Judicial Reform Amidst Controversy**
On September 10, 2024, the national Senate passed the contentious judicial reform with a significant majority amidst severe criticism from various political factions. The reform, which now awaits ratification from state congresses, faces legal challenges and public opposition. Critics argue the reform undermines judicial independence by introducing popular votes for judicial appointments, potentially leading to politicization of the judiciary.
Supreme Court President Arturo ZaldÃvar expressed concerns about the reform’s impact on the rule of law and judicial autonomy. Meanwhile, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the reform, stating it is crucial for tackling systemic corruption within the judiciary.
As the reform heads to state legislatures for approval, debates continue regarding its implications for Mexico’s judicial system and democratic health.
**For ongoing updates and detailed analysis, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.**