Background on Andrés Manuel López Obrador
Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the former President of Mexico (2018-2024), has established a new regime that critics argue mirrors the all-powerful presidency of the 20th century. His influence continues to expand, with some asserting that his regime aims to govern beyond 2050.
Control of the Judicial Branch and Elimination of Democratic Checks
López Obrador has regained control of the Judicial Branch and dismantled democratic institutions that once limited presidential power. This has led to speculation about the strength of this new regime, often referred to as “la revolución de las conciencias” (the revolution of consciousnesses).
Morena’s Strengths and Weaknesses
While López Obrador’s regime appears strong, analysts point out that during the 20th-century PRI era, presidents also wielded immense power. The potential weakness of Morena, López Obrador’s political party, lies in its heavy reliance on his symbolic presence for unity and direction.
Challenges Facing the New Regime
Lack of Preventive Medicine in IMSS-Bienestar
The new regime faces challenges, particularly in managing the IMSS-Bienestar program. The Secretary of Labor, Marath Baruch Bolaños, must now address the absence of preventive medicine in this institution. The CNTE (National Education Workers’ Section) has offered to advise an “independent union” that emerged just a year ago, highlighting operational and resource issues within IMSS.
Excessive Spending in the SCJN
Critics question whether the penal and administrative court rooms in the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) were mere extravagance, reflecting the inexperience of incoming justices. While this statement may be politically correct, it reveals a lack of understanding regarding the complexities of judicial reform.
Additional Concerns
Pemex and Private Investment
Rumors circulate that Pemex (Mexico’s state-owned petroleum company) is preparing regulations to attract private investment. However, there are concerns about potential corruption among officials demanding “moche” (bribes) from small and medium-sized suppliers, as alleged by Coparmex (Confederation of Mexican Business Chambers).
Xenophobia and Judicial Colonization
There are questions about whether deep-rooted xenophobia exists in Mexico, despite the government’s humanist rhetoric and numerous regulations. Meanwhile, magistrates in the Federal Electoral Tribunal of the Judicial Power have shown little resistance to executive colonization.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How strong is López Obrador’s new regime? A: Critics argue it mirrors the all-powerful presidency of the 20th century, while supporters claim it aims to govern beyond 2050. However, analysts point out the potential weakness due to heavy reliance on López Obrador’s symbolic presence.
- Q: What challenges does the new regime face? A: The regime faces issues such as managing the IMSS-Bienestar program, addressing corruption concerns in Pemex, and potential xenophobia within Mexican society.
- Q: How experienced are the incoming SCJN justices? A: Critics suggest that their inexperience is evident, as demonstrated by questions about excessive spending on court rooms.
