Introduction
The article discusses the democratic regression in Mexico, focusing on the lack of a genuine commitment to democracy among both the population and politicians. It highlights how figures like Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who once advocated for democratic principles, have now become part of the problem by centralizing power.
López Obrador’s Shift from Democratic Advocate to Power Centralizer
López Obrador, once a fierce opponent of authoritarianism while in opposition, has betrayed his democratic commitments since gaining power. He has centralized authority in his person and party, disregarding democratic principles when they conflict with his interests. Many Morena politicians, who once championed democratic transformation, are now complicit in this regression.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s Lack of Democratic Commitment
Claudia Sheinbaum, currently a prominent figure in the administration, has never shown a genuine commitment to democracy. She benefited from democratic openings but never fought for them. Consequently, her proposed electoral reforms prioritize the presidency and her party over democratic principles.
Historical Context of Democracy in Mexico
Mexico’s history does not reflect a strong democratic tradition. The only relatively free election since independence was Francisco I. Madero’s, with other elections being manipulated by the ruling government. A lack of a democratic culture among the population has persisted, with the 1988 political transformation excluding most citizens from the process.
Public Perception of Democracy
The population does not value democratic advancements due to their lack of participation in the democratic process and the absence of tangible benefits. Persistent issues like inequality, poverty, insecurity, poor public education, limited healthcare access, low economic growth, informal employment, and inadequate public services have left many feeling disillusioned with democracy.
The Rise of Populism
Until 2000, presidents chose governors, rendering popular votes insignificant. Although people realized their votes mattered post-2000, the lack of democratic benefits fueled disillusionment. This void paved the way for populist leaders like López Obrador, who capitalized on social policies to strengthen his power and party.
Moving Forward: The Path to Reclaiming Democracy
Morena holds significant power, making it challenging to remove them from government. However, the first step towards change is raising public awareness about democracy’s importance, the division of powers, and an independent judiciary.
Key Questions and Answers
- What has led to democratic regression in Mexico? The lack of genuine commitment to democracy among both the population and politicians, exemplified by figures like López Obrador who have centralized power.
- Who are some key figures contributing to this regression? Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Claudia Sheinbaum, who once advocated for democratic principles but now prioritize power consolidation.
- Why has the Mexican population lost faith in democracy? Due to their exclusion from the 1988 political transformation and the absence of tangible democratic benefits, such as improved living conditions and better public services.
- What is the significance of raising public awareness about democracy? It is a crucial first step towards reclaiming democratic principles, division of powers, and an independent judiciary in Mexico.
