### Mexican Deputies Approve Military Placement of National Guard Under SEDENA
On September 19, 2024, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies approved the reform that places the National Guard (GN) under the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA) with 362 votes in favor and 133 against. The ruling proposes modifications to various articles within the Mexican Constitution, allowing the GN to be militarized just before the end of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s term on September 30, 2024.
**Key Points of the Reform:**
– **Constitutional Changes:** The reform includes changes to 12 constitutional articles and assigns the National Guard’s investigative duties within its jurisdiction. The GN will be composed of military and marine personnel with police training, operating under the Ministry of Defense.
– **Coordination in Security:** The Ministry of Public and all police institutions at different government levels are mandated to coordinate with each other to fulfill public security goals.
– **Civil Nature of Public Security Institutions:** Despite the proposed military structure, the institutions will retain a civil character.
– **Role of the Legislature:** The Congress of the Union will have the authority to pass laws regulating the military’s participation in public security tasks.
– **Senate’s Role:** The Senate, or the Permanent Commission in its absence, will ratify the appointment of high-ranking GN officials proposed by the President.
– **Executive Powers:** Allows the Executive branch to deploy the military in support of public security when necessary.
– **Eligibility Conditions for Office:** Sets restrictions on active military service members running for presidential or legislative office, with required separation periods before elections.
– **Restrictions and Provisions:** Stipulates the limitations of military tribunals and military presence in civilian properties during peace time.
**Transitional Measures:**
– **Reclassification:** Current GN personnel from military and naval backgrounds will be reassigned without losing their seniority or rights.
– **Leadership Appointment:** Until GN-trained generals are available, a general from the Army experienced in public security may be appointed.
– **Redistribution of Budget:** Financial resources for the GN will be reallocated from the budget previously assigned to the now-defunct Federal Police (PF). Personnel from PF will remain under security institutions, retaining their labor rights.
**Secondary News on the Topic:**
### Additional News: Mexican President Defends the Militarization of National Guard
President López Obrador defended the decision to move the National Guard under the control of the military, ensuring that it is a necessary step to bolster public security across the country. Amid criticisms of potentially escalating militarization, the President emphasized that this integration is crucial for fighting crime and maintaining peace. This move has stirred significant controversy among human rights advocates and opposition parties, leading to vigorous debates over its implications.
### International Context: Global Reactions to Mexico’s National Guard Shift
The international community is closely monitoring Mexico’s decision to militarize the National Guard. Various human rights organizations have voiced concerns over the potential for increased human rights abuses and the undermining of civilian control over security forces. Neighboring countries and international bodies have urged the Mexican government to ensure that this transition adheres to international human rights standards and does not compromise the rule of law.
### Public Opinion: Mixed Reactions from Mexican Citizens
The Mexican populace has shown varied reactions to the new reform. While some citizens support the move, believing it will enhance security and effectively combat organized crime, others fear it may lead to authoritarian practices and increased military presence in daily life. Public forums and social media platforms reveal a divided nation, seeking clarity and assurance from the government on the true impact of these constitutional changes.
Stay tuned for more updates and detailed analysis on this significant development.