**Are They Really About the Methods?**
The perspective on repression and protest shifts dramatically depending on whether those involved are in power or in opposition. Recently, the same individuals who once criticized methods of protest have found themselves protesting, while those who critiqued governmental abuses have now committed them. This paradox was exceedingly evident in the lamentable events that unfolded in the Baja California Congress on September 11, 2024—a dark day for the region.
The violent clash between Federal Judicial employees and state police at the Congress was a stark reminder that the methods of power haven’t changed, regardless of who wields it. The police force’s heavy-handed response was unequivocally an abuse of power and a repressive action against the public. However, a deeper analysis reveals several layers of complexity.
Looking at the governing bodies—the Executive and Legislative—many current officials were once part of social protests. This ranged from issues as diverse as bus fare pricing, indigenous community rights, and water protection. Notable figures like Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda herself were protestors against attempts to privatize water services under Francisco Vega de Lamadrid. Others, such as Armando Samaniego and Michel Sánchez Allende, have similar backgrounds in social activism.
Ironically, the tables have turned. Many who were once activists now see protests from a distance, as their positions have shifted to seats of power. Those who decried past social movements now face their own opposition, exposing a cycle of repeating behaviors. Protesters this time were judicial employees who previously prioritized maintaining law and order over social causes.
The violent outbreak at the Congress, featuring vandalism and physical confrontations between protesters and police, raises questions for both sides. Is it justified to use public force against citizens who do not align with you? Equally, is it acceptable to cause property damage and risk personal injury for a cause you believe in?
Both positions are now laid bare, revealing significant failings from both the ‘guardians of the law’ and the so-called ‘representatives of the people’. Accountability must be sought. In this instance, dereliction falls upon the governing leftist authorities who failed in both policing and political responsibility.
Officials like Dunnia Monserrat Murillo López, President of the State Congress, and Juan Manuel Molina from the Junta de Coordinación Política, should have engaged with the protesters much earlier to avoid confrontation. Instead, only after injuries and chaos did they take steps to address the dissent, highlighting a massive deficiency in their response.
Ultimately, the police, legislative body, and protestors each showcased not only their faults but also an underlying hypocrisy. This crisis calls for an accountable response and reflective actions from both lawmakers and law enforcers to mend their relations with the public whom they serve.
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**Secondary Article: Judicial Reform Protests Lead to Online Legislative Sessions**
Following the chaotic protests at the Baja California Congress, legislators have moved their sessions to the digital sphere. On September 11, 2024, the State Congress approved the judicial reform via Zoom, amidst the fallout from the violent confrontations.
Earlier that day, Federal Judicial Workers stormed the Congress to voice their opposition to proposed reforms, underscoring tensions between the judiciary and the legislature. The episodes of violence severely disrupted proceedings, pushing lawmakers to adopt remote sessions temporarily as a measure to continue their work without physical disruption.
The events also prompted further scrutiny of local political strategies and security approaches, as investigative reports exposed underlying agreements involving Jaime Bonilla. On September 9, 2024, reports emerged of a citatory against Bonilla concerning the Next Energy case, adding another layer of complexity to Baja California’s political landscape.
These recent happenings highlight an ongoing struggle between maintaining public order, governance, and addressing robust dissent, pointing to a need for a reconsideration of how protest and political engagement coexist.
For continuous updates on this evolving story, visit TJGringo.com.