Introduction to Hugo Aguilar Ortiz
Hugo Aguilar Ortiz, the newly appointed President of Mexico’s Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN), has pledged to foster a close and accessible court system, ensuring that no barriers separate the judiciary from Mexican society. Aguilar, an indigenous Oaxacan, aims to establish a dialogue-based relationship with other branches of government and promote independence.
Respect for Division of Powers
During the ceremony attended by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and the presidents of the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, Aguilar emphasized his commitment to respecting the division of powers in Mexico. He assured that the court will maintain a collaborative and independent relationship with other government branches, ultimately benefiting Mexico.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
In his first message as a minister, Aguilar outlined the court’s dedication to being approachable and inclusive. He pledged to listen to victims, engage with academia and civil society, and communicate with indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities. The court will also remain open to scrutiny from the media and organized citizenry.
Combatting Corruption and Austerity Measures
During the first public session of the new court, Aguilar announced his intentions to combat corruption and nepotism within the judicial system. He also outlined austerity measures, including salaries for ministers that are lower than the President’s salary, public healthcare coverage, and a reduction in retired ministers’ pensions.
Symbolic Ceremony
Receiving Bastones de Mando
Eight of the nine new ministers received their ceremonial batons amidst incense, bird feathers, and the sound of caracoles (Mexican land snails) in Mexico City’s Zócalo. Arístides Rodrigo Guerrero García, who is currently recovering from a traffic accident, was unable to attend.
Traditional healers from Otomi, Mixteco, Zapotec, and Wirárika communities conducted a purification ceremony. A caracolero (a person who works with snails) from the Mazahua community also participated.
“Hugo, Hugo, Hugo,” the crowd chanted as men brandished machetes in the air, symbolizing their support for Aguilar.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Hugo Aguilar Ortiz? An indigenous Oaxacan who was appointed as the President of Mexico’s Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN).
- What is Aguilar’s main goal as SCJN President? To establish a close, accessible, and inclusive court system that actively engages with Mexican society.
- What measures will Aguilar implement to combat corruption? He aims to eliminate nepotism and ensure transparency within the judicial system.
- What austerity measures will Aguilar enforce? Ministers’ salaries will be lower than the President’s, they will receive public healthcare, and retired ministers’ pensions will be reviewed downward.
- What was the symbolic ceremony about? The ceremony involved traditional healers and a caracolero, symbolizing community support for Aguilar as he assumes his new role.
