Introduction
The 30-year tenure of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) has come to an end, marking a significant shift towards absolute power in Mexico. This transition raises concerns about the future of democracy and the republican concept.
Historical Context
Former President Ernesto Zedillo laid the groundwork for an independent judicial power, while current President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has since dismantled it. López Obrador’s dissatisfaction with the SCJN upholding the Constitution led to his attempts to impose his will, extend Arturo Zaldívar’s presidency, and manipulate the Federal Electoral Tribunal. He also granted his party a qualified majority in the National Electoral Institute, despite not winning it at the polls.
Zaldívar’s Tenure and Fall from Grace
Since 2018, President Zaldívar’s actions have been questionable. He became a puppet for Palacio Nacional, attempting to extend his term but ultimately failing. Without presidential power, he turned to undermining the SCJN from within and outside.
Incoming Ministers and Concerns
The departure of the first female SCJN president, Norma Lucía Piña Hernández, leaves room for new ministers. While she served with dignity and professionalism, some believe she could have been more assertive in defending herself against executive pressure. Piña Hernández has promised to reveal behind-the-scenes events in her memoirs.
Notable ministers like Ana Margarita Ríos Farjat, Juan Luis González Alcántara Carrancá, Alfredo Gutiérrez Ortiz Mena, Javier Laynez Potisek, Luis María Aguilar Morales, and Jorge Mario Pardo Rebolledo have interpreted the Constitution effectively. However, some ministers, like Alberto Pérez Dayán, have aligned themselves with the ruling party’s agenda.
The Future of the Judiciary
A new generation of ministers, magistrates, and judges will soon take office, resulting from a documented electoral fraud dismissed by INE and Tribunal magistrates. These appointments raise concerns about their loyalty to the regime, lack of experience, incomplete studies, and potential ties to organized crime or groups like Luz del Mundo.
Implications for Mexico
Mexico’s judicial system should not be chosen through popular vote or dictatorial practices. The transition to a new SCJN, filled with unelected and underqualified individuals, will likely delay the return to a balanced democracy with three independent powers.
Key Questions and Answers
- What changes are happening in Mexico’s Supreme Court? The SCJN is transitioning to a new era with ministers appointed by the current administration, raising concerns about their independence and qualifications.
- Who were the notable ministers during the previous era? Ana Margarita Ríos Farjat, Juan Luis González Alcántara Carrancá, Alfredo Gutiérrez Ortiz Mena, Javier Laynez Potisek, Luis María Aguilar Morales, and Jorge Mario Pardo Rebolledo were known for their effective interpretation of the Constitution.
- What are the concerns about the new SCJN ministers? Concerns include their lack of experience, incomplete studies, potential ties to organized crime, and allegiance to the ruling party rather than upholding the Constitution.
- How will this transition impact Mexico’s democracy? The transition may delay the return to a balanced democracy with three independent powers, as the new SCJN ministers may not prioritize constitutional integrity.
