### Mexican Legislators Approve Constitutional Supremacy Reform
On October 31, 2024, members of Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies and the Senate declared the constitutionality of a significant reform initiative known as the “constitutional supremacy.” This initiative, driven by the political party Morena, amends Article 107 and adds a fifth paragraph to Article 105 of the Mexican Constitution. The reform is designed to prevent any legal challenges to constitutional amendments passed by Congress.
The declaration was made despite the absence of opposition parties—National Action Party (PAN), Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), and Citizens’ Movement (MC)—and with just 251 out of 500 deputies present, barely meeting the quorum. The reform received the approval of 23 state legislatures, including Baja California, Yucatán, and Mexico City, among others.
Sergio Carlos Gutiérrez Luna, President of the Chamber of Deputies, emphasized that the reform is aimed at ensuring that constitutional changes remain unchallengeable. Meanwhile, Ricardo Monreal Ávila, the coordinator of Morena, described this as one of the most profound reforms in the nation’s history, arguing that no judicial authority will have the power to overturn a constitutional amendment.
The reform was prompted by what Morena viewed as an abuse of power by judges accepting injunctions against legitimate legislative reforms. In his statement, Monreal Ávila called for respect and adherence to the Constitution, suggesting that this reform shields it from judicial overruling.
After the declaration, the reform was sent to the federal executive branch for publication in the Official Diary of the Federation. However, the MC Senate group has criticized the reform as harmful because it restricts constitutional review, stifling future generations’ ability to protect the Constitution.
This reform raises concerns about giving the legislative branch unchecked power, eliminating judicial oversight of even the most radical constitutional amendments. Critics argue this move could lead to potential abuses of power without recourse.
### Additional Developments in Mexico’s Political Scene
In other news from Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, a prominent figure in Mexican politics, announced a significant allocation of 130 billion pesos annually for purchasing medication, aiming to improve healthcare accessibility across the country. This substantial investment highlights the administration’s commitment to enhancing the public healthcare system and ensuring the availability of essential medical supplies.
Additionally, recent law enforcement actions have been noteworthy, as “Delta 1,” reportedly the third-in-command of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was arrested in Guadalajara. This arrest is part of ongoing efforts by the Mexican military, confirmed by the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), to dismantle organized crime networks across the nation.
Meanwhile, developments in judicial proceedings include the indictment of “El Max,” an operative of the infamous drug lord “El Mayo,” showcasing the Mexican judicial system’s determination to pursue high-profile criminal cases.
These stories underline the dynamic nature of Mexican politics and governance, with significant reforms, investments, and legal actions indicating shifts in the country’s political landscape and law enforcement strategies.