Background on the Mexican Bar Association (BMA)
The Mexican Bar Association, also known as the Barra Mexicana, Colegio de Abogados, A.C. (BMA), is a prominent legal organization in Mexico representing lawyers and advocating for the integrity of the country’s justice system.
TEPJF’s Decision and BMA’s Concerns
The Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación (TEPJF) recently declared the judicial election valid, despite allegations of using “acordeones” – a controversial practice in the electoral process.
In response, the BMA released a statement expressing deep concern over this decision. They argue that validating the use of acordeón in judicial elections sets a dangerous precedent for future elections and deviates from international standards.
What are Acordeones?
Acordeón, in this context, refers to a method of influencing voters through clandestine means. It typically involves offering incentives or applying pressure on judicial candidates to secure their votes, which undermines the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
BMA’s Argument Against TEPJF’s Decision
The BMA emphasizes that the appointment of judges, magistrates, and ministers is crucial for maintaining public trust, impartiality, independence, and professionalism within the judicial system. Any measure that lowers transparency, rigor, or professional merit jeopardizes not only the legitimacy of elections but also the stability of the justice system.
They further assert that the use of acordeón weakens the credibility of the electoral process, sends a misleading message to society, and erodes public confidence in institutions responsible for ensuring the constitutionality and legality of democratic processes.
TEPJF’s Stance and BMA’s Call to Action
A week before the BMA’s statement, a majority faction of the Tribunal Electoral Superior (TEPJF) rejected annulling the election of SCJN ministers, citing a lack of evidence regarding acordeón usage.
TEPJF maintained that there were no proofs about the manner, timing, or location of acordeón use, nor any indication that it influenced voting. They argued that an election could not be annulled without concrete evidence, dismissing the allegations as mere conjecture.
In light of TEPJF’s decision, the BMA urged both the legal community and society at large to monitor independence of the judiciary, which they consider essential for balancing powers and ensuring full observance of fundamental rights.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are acordeones in the context of Mexican judicial elections? Acordeón refers to a clandestine method of influencing voters in judicial elections, often involving secretive incentives or pressure tactics to secure votes.
- Why is the Mexican Bar Association (BMA) concerned about TEPJF’s decision? The BMA is worried that validating the use of acordeón in judicial elections sets a dangerous precedent, deviates from international standards, and undermines public trust in the judicial system.
- What evidence did TEPJF consider when rejecting the annulment of SCJN ministers’ election? TEPJF argued that there was insufficient evidence regarding the use of acordeón, including lack of proof about its manner, timing, location, and influence on voting.
- What is the BMA’s call to action following TEPJF’s decision? The BMA urges the legal community and society to monitor judicial independence, emphasizing its importance for balancing powers and ensuring fundamental rights.
