Background on the Initiative and Key Players
In 2019, under the leadership of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), an original initiative was introduced to hold the revocation of mandate on the same day as federal elections, where only federal deputies would be elected. Fast forward to today, a new proposal by Morena’s Diputado Alfonso Ramírez Cuéllar seeks to merge revocation exercises with the 2027 midterm elections for federal deputies, as well as local elections for mayors, governors, and the second part of judicial elections.
The Proposed Reform Details
Ramírez Cuéllar’s proposal aims to amend fractions VIII and IX of Article 35 in the Constitution Political, concerning popular consultation and revocation of mandate. The suggested changes would allow for a single revocation request period from the start of the fourth year until the end of the sixth year of a constitutional period. Furthermore, this revocation would occur simultaneously with regular election days for federal deputies, local officials, and judicial positions.
Current Situation and Controversy
Previously, the Constitution stated that revocation of mandate could not coincide with federal or state election days, and it was to be held on the Sunday following 90 days after a formal call. The 2019 initiative, however, proposed conducting revocation on the same day as federal elections for deputies only and allowed the executive to request such consultation.
Upon reaching the Senate of the Republic, the reform was altered by nearly all parties due to concerns from opposition about potential election contamination, illegal presidential interference, and the risk of transforming it into a form of re-election.
Opposition and Concerns
- PRI Coordinator Rubén Moreira: Criticizes Morena’s attempt to include the president on midterm election ballots, claiming it would distort elections.
- Noemí Luna (PAN): Views the proposal as a democratic setback, stating that linking revocation with regular elections undermines citizen consultation and turns it into political propaganda.
Potential Impact and Considerations
If approved, this reform would consolidate revocation exercises with multiple election cycles. Proponents argue that this move strengthens democratic legitimacy by linking consultation processes to regular elections, increasing citizen participation and optimizing public resource use. However, critics warn of potential election distortion and the dilution of citizen consultation power.
