**Protesters Briefly Block Otay Commercial Port of Entry**
On the morning of October 1, 2024, dozens of protesters gathered at the Otay commercial port of entry to express their support for the Federal Judiciary of Mexico (PJF) and voice their opposition to recent reforms. This demonstration is part of a series of marches and protests happening nationwide, coinciding with Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s inauguration as President of Mexico.
The protest began on Bellas Artes Boulevard, where a table was set up to collect signatures for a legal appeal against the new reforms. The protesters then marched to the customs facility, momentarily closing the commercial port for an estimated 15 minutes.
Carlos Atilano, a representative of the Tijuana Bar Association, explained that the goal of the protest is to suspend the implementation of the reforms. “We want the electoral body to refrain from enforcing the reforms and to halt the process of electing judges and magistrates,” Atilano stated.
During their march, the protesters chanted various slogans such as “Not our President,” “Tijuana, hold on, resistance rises,” and “Gentlemen, ladies, don’t be indifferent, Mexico requires independent justice.” The demonstration also temporarily blocked Bellas Artes Boulevard near the Tijuana International Airport, affecting traffic in the Sentri vehicle lane for those entering the United States.
The protest marks the third time this week that PJF workers have blocked major roadways to express their discontent with the reforms.
**Secondary Article: Nationwide Unrest Following Inauguration of Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo**
As Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo steps into her role as the President of Mexico, nationwide demonstrations have erupted opposing recently approved judicial reforms. Protests have been reported in several key cities across the country, with organizers calling for the suspension of reforms they say undermine judicial independence.
In the capital, Mexico City, thousands took to the streets, holding banners and chanting slogans calling for justice and independence. Protesters argue that the reforms give excessive power to the executive branch over the judiciary and compromise the impartiality of the courts.
Similar protests were observed in Guadalajara and Monterrey, where local bar associations and civic groups joined forces to decry the changes. According to reports, these demonstrations have largely remained peaceful but have caused significant disruptions to traffic and daily activities.
In response to the unrest, government officials have stated that the reforms are necessary to modernize the judiciary and make it more efficient. However, critics warn that these changes could lead to increased corruption and a lack of checks and balances within the government.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the new administration will address the growing concerns of its citizens and whether a middle ground can be found to resolve the ongoing conflict between the judiciary and executive branches.