**San Lázaro Commission Approves Reform to Transfer National Guard to SEDENA**
On August 22, 2024, the Commission of Constitutional Points in the Chamber of Deputies approved President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s initiative to transfer the operational and administrative command of the National Guard (GN) to the Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA). The majority vote came from Morena, the Green Ecologist Party of Mexico (PVEM), and the Labor Party (PT). Opposing votes were cast by the National Action Party (PAN), Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Democratic Revolution Party (PRD), and Citizen Movement (MC).
The decision will now move to a discussion of 22 specific reservations. This key reform was announced during a press conference by Mexico’s president-elect, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, who endorsed the transfer, claiming it would prevent “shameful cases” similar to that of Genaro García Luna, a former head of the now-defunct Public Security Secretariat (SSP) during Felipe Calderón’s presidency.
Sheinbaum stated, “There were very shameful precedents like García Luna. I agree that the National Guard should be under SEDENA. Such cases will not occur during our term, and we hope never again in our country.”
The National Guard was created on March 26, 2019, initially with 70,000 members, according to the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF). It now comprises 140,000 members deployed across Mexico.
**Additional Insight**
Recently, there have been growing tensions and debates surrounding the transfer of the National Guard to SEDENA. Critics argue that this move may militarize the country’s internal security forces, which may not necessarily align with democratic principles and civilian oversight.
One example is José Miguel Vivanco, a human rights advocate who highlighted potential risks of human rights abuses associated with putting more power in the hands of military institutions. He stressed the importance of civilian oversight for police forces to prevent such abuses and to uphold the rule of law and democracy.
According to sources, the change may also exacerbate existing concerns about corruption and the impunity of security officials. This has been a significant issue, as seen in the case of García Luna, whose conviction on charges of drug trafficking and corruption has only fueled public distrust.
Moreover, recent surveys reveal a divided public opinion on the matter. While some citizens support the move for its potential to enhance security, others worry about the repercussions on civil liberties and governance.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for further updates on this and other related news.