**PRI Opposes National Guard Reform; Noroña Orders Senate Closure to Citizens**
The parliamentary group of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) in the Senate has declared its opposition to a constitutional amendment that proposes integrating the National Guard (GN) under the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA). The announcement was made on September 24, 2024, via a social media statement.
“In the PRI, we are convinced that to restore peace, political will, strengthening local police forces, proper resource allocation, and comprehensive strategies are required,” stated the party on their X account. Additionally, the PRI senators urged the Morena party to seriously address the issue of public security and collaborate in establishing a true path to reclaim tranquility in the country.
On the previous day, Adán Augusto López Hernández, the coordinator of the Morena Senate group, claimed that at least one PRI senator would vote in favor of the National Guard reform. During a second meeting of the Joint Commissions on Constitutional Matters and Legislative Studies, López Hernández responded to questioning from Ricardo Anaya Cortés and disclosed that PRI Senator Manuel Añorve Baños would supposedly support the reform.
“Now is the time to go beyond our political differences and work together to build what can help us, especially since the Mexican people have overwhelmingly indicated it is not our time,” added López Hernández, a former Interior Secretary.
Fernández Noroña, President of the Senate’s Board of Directors, stated on September 19, 2024, that some PRI and PAN senators supported the initiative. “Both PRI and PAN senators agree on the issue of the National Guard because they share concerns about public security and see the National Guard as crucial to addressing these issues,” commented Fernández Noroña.
Later, Fernández Noroña restricted access to the Senate to non-working citizens during the debate on the National Guard reform. In a document dated September 23, 2024, he justified the decision based on Article 61 of the Constitution and Article 310 of the Senate Regulations, which mandate the Board of Directors’ responsibility to ensure the Senate’s inviolability.
“To ensure the free and secure conduct of ordinary sessions in this legislative venue, we have suspended access to citizens who do not work in the Senate or serve as legislative liaisons,” informed Fernández Noroña.
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**Secondary Article: Public Reaction and Political Maneuvering Surrounding National Guard Reform**
Following the PRI’s announcement to vote against the proposed National Guard reform, there has been intense political maneuvering and public reaction. Public forums and online platforms have seen a surge in discussions debating the merits and drawbacks of the reform.
Morena supporters argue that integrating the National Guard under the military’s command is essential for operational efficiency and tackling organized crime. Critics, however, caution against militarizing public security roles, citing potential human rights abuses and reduced accountability.
Political analysts suggest that the PRI’s stance may be a strategic move to assert its influence and negotiate terms with the ruling party on other legislative matters. The upcoming Senate session is expected to be contentious, with both sides preparing for heated debates.
Citizens and civic organizations have expressed concerns over the restricted access to the Senate during such a significant legislative decision. Calls for transparency and public involvement continue to resonate as the country awaits the outcome of the legislative process.
The situation remains dynamic, with potential implications for Mexico’s political landscape and public security strategies.