Key Players and Negotiations
Ricardo Monreal Ávila, coordinator of the Morena party’s parliamentary group in the Chamber of Deputies, announced that negotiations on electoral reform between Morena, PVEM, and PT are ongoing in the Secretariat of Government. The second period of sessions for the LXVI Legislature of the Union Congress has begun, with electoral reform projected as the main topic for discussion.
Uncertainty Surrounding Presidential Iniative
Monreal Ávila mentioned that he is still unaware of whether the presidential electoral reform initiative will be sent and when. He stated, “We had said that February was the critical date for sending it. I know they are still dialoguing with the PT, Verde, and Morena in the Secretariat of Government, but we have no input, nor any project or law proposal that has been sent to us by the Executive in this matter.”
Anticipating General Discussion
Once the federal government concludes negotiations with PVEM and PT, and submits the electoral reform initiative to either chamber of the Legislative Power, Monreal Ávila anticipates initiating a “general discussion” with all political forces represented in the chamber. He expressed, “They are trying to do it first with the movement,” and that the Secretariat of Government will likely open dialogue to hear from all parties.
Additional Reform Priorities
Monreal Ávila outlined other priority reforms that Morena and allies in the Senate plan to promote over the next three months. These include:
- Unfinished reforms from the previous ordinary session that concluded in December, such as modifications to the National Code of Criminal Procedures and the Federal Law against Organized Crime, focusing on security and justice.
- Protection of judges’ safety and guidelines to combat crimes committed in flagrante.
- Reduction of the workweek to 40 hours, as per Article 123, section A of the Constitution.
Presidential Reforms for Strengthening Anti-Corruption System
In addition to electoral reform, the Morena parliamentary group in the Senate and allies will also prioritize presidential reforms aimed at fortifying the anti-corruption system. Monreal Ávila mentioned that the Legal Advisory Council is preparing several laws to amend anti-corruption statutes. Once these are formally sent to the Chamber of Deputies, they will begin working with all parliamentary groups.
Key Questions and Answers
- Will Morena withdraw the electoral reform initiative due to lack of support from its PVEM and PT allies? No, Monreal Ávila stated that he cannot confirm withdrawal as it would be risky. He expressed confidence in reaching agreements and achieving consensus for the initiative’s presentation.
- When can we expect the presidential electoral reform initiative? Monreal Ávila has no information on the timing or content of the initiative, as negotiations are still ongoing with PVEM and PT.
- What other reforms are prioritized by Morena in the upcoming period? Morena and allies plan to focus on unfinished reforms from the previous session, including modifications to the National Code of Criminal Procedures and the Federal Law against Organized Crime. They also aim to reduce the workweek to 40 hours and strengthen the anti-corruption system.
