**”Pony” Avelar and Karina Acosta Appointed as New Magistrates in Baja California**
In a recent legislative session, Karina Acosta Dueñez and Salvador “Pony” Avelar were appointed as numerary magistrates of the Superior Court of Justice of Baja California. The decision was unanimously supported by all deputies during the session on October 4, 2024, filling vacancies left by Olympa Angeles Chacon and Jesus Espinoza who are stepping down.
Karina Acosta, who holds the position of a civil judge in Mexicali, boasts extensive experience in the judiciary. Notably, she is married to Juan José Pon, the State’s Legal Counselor. Meanwhile, Salvador “Pony” Avelar, known for his close ties with a regional lawmaker, recently gained attention due to controversial remarks made during a court proceeding.
Despite their impressive credentials, both Appointees’ connections to influential figures in the government have raised eyebrows. This appointment comes amid ongoing discussions regarding Mexico’s judicial reform, which proposes that the selection of judges and magistrates could be subjected to a voting process similar to what may happen in regional jurisdictions.
**Related News: Judicial Appointments Amidst Reform Debate**
The recent appointment of two magistrates in Baja California occurs against the backdrop of national discourse on judicial reform. Across Mexico, debates continue on a proposal to democratize the judiciary by allowing public votes for judges, magistrate, and ministerial appointments. Proponents argue this could increase transparency and accountability, while critics warn it might politicize the judiciary.
The reform aims to decentralize authority from federal control, granting more power to state-level jurisdictions, including Baja California. The potential impact on local governance structures and their influence on judicial appointments has been a subject of intense discussion, underlining the need for balancing integrity and public influence in Mexico’s justice system.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for ongoing coverage and insights into these developments.