**Judges and Magistrates Resume Work After 53-Day Strike**
Judges and magistrates have decided to end their 53-day strike, which began on August 21st as a protest against the Judicial Reform enacted by the Congress. This reform, which came into effect on September 16th, has been a point of contention within the judiciary.
The National Association of Circuit Magistrates and District Judges of the Federal Judiciary announced today that they voted on the possibility of resuming work on October 16th while exploring other forms of protest to voice their disapproval of the Judicial Reform. In the vote, 684 supported returning to their judicial duties, while 572 opposed the decision.
“It is clear that there is a significant portion of judges who consider it appropriate to resume judicial duties, while varying the forms of protest. However, there is also an important faction that prefers to maintain the strike as a form of protest,” the association explained. Despite the vote, they emphasized that the results reflect a mandate due to the lack of formal dialogue tables for magistrates, where concrete and executable measures could be adopted.
Moreover, the association reiterated that the diversity of opinions is “a clear reflection of our unity” as a profession. They stated that all members are committed and “fighting” for the defense of their human rights, the separation of powers, and the strengthening of the rule of law.
“We fully trust that the Supreme Court, as the last bastion in the defense of liberty and democracy in Mexico, will know how to protect the principles that guide us and safeguard the fundamental rights of Mexicans,” they expressed.
They also demanded that the Federal Judicial Council “strictly follow” the suspension determinations issued by the heads of the Judiciary, to ensure compliance with the constitutional mandate and “return our country to the path of legality and respect for the division of powers that governs every Democratic State.” Consequently, after 53 days of strike, judges will return to work following their opposition to the Judicial Reform initiated by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador, with the strike reportedly costing over nine billion pesos, according to Minister Lenia Batres Guadarrama.
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**Judiciary Strikes: An Ongoing Challenge**
In recent news, the Federal Judiciary has faced mounting challenges stemming from repeated reform proposals and tensions with the executive branch. Just last year, another attempt at judicial restructuring caused widespread concern among judiciary members, with discussions focusing on the delicate balance between independence and accountability.
This ongoing tension has led to several strikes and protests by judicial employees who fear their independence is being undermined. As Mexico continues to navigate these reforms, the role of the Supreme Court and legal associations in safeguarding judicial autonomy remains critical. It is expected that alongside resuming work, judges will continue to engage in strategic communications and public demonstrations to maintain awareness and support for their cause.