Newly Elected Judges Gain Legitimacy Directly from Citizens, Says INE Chairperson

Web Editor

July 4, 2025

a group of people holding up papers in front of a crowd of people in suits and ties, all holding up

Background on Guadalupe Taddei Zavala

Guadalupe Taddei Zavala serves as the consejera presidenta (council president) of Mexico’s Instituto Nacional Electoral (INE), the independent agency responsible for organizing and overseeing elections in Mexico. As a prominent figure in the country’s electoral process, her statements carry significant weight and influence.

INE’s Stance on Judicial Elections

During the ceremony where 801 candidates received their certificates of majority for winning federal judge and magistrate positions in the June 1 election, Taddei Zavala emphasized that these newly elected judges and magistrates will have legitimacy derived directly from the citizenry, rather than from the power structure.

Key Points of Taddei Zavala’s Statement

  • Direct Citizen Legitimacy: Taddei Zavala stressed that the new judges and magistrates are not appointed but elected, representing the will of millions of people seeking a more accessible, humane, and equitable justice system.
  • New Conception of Public Power: The act symbolizes the conclusion of an electoral phase and the beginning of a new understanding of public power in Mexico.
  • Reinvention and Democratic Expansion: Mexico, through this election process, has shown its capacity to reinvent itself and broaden democracy by trusting citizens to decide not only who creates laws or governs but also who administers justice.
  • Reform Defense: Taddei Zavala defended the recent constitutional reform, stating that it demonstrates Mexico’s ability to trust citizens with crucial state matters and showcases the possibility of transformation without destruction or innovation without breaking existing structures.

Context and Impact on Mexican Society

The newly elected judges and magistrates will play a crucial role in shaping Mexico’s justice system. Their legitimacy stemming directly from the citizenry signifies a shift in how public power is perceived and exercised. This change reflects Mexico’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy, promote transparency, and foster trust in its institutions.

Challenges and INE’s Integrity

Taddei Zavala acknowledged the complexity of this electoral process, noting both its intensity and scrutiny. However, she defended the INE’s integrity and transparency, asserting that the elections were legal and reliable.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the significance of these newly elected judges and magistrates? Their legitimacy stems directly from the citizenry, marking a shift in how public power is perceived and exercised in Mexico.
  • Why is this election process important for Mexican democracy? It demonstrates the country’s ability to trust citizens with crucial state matters and showcases transformation without destruction or innovation without breaking existing structures.
  • What challenges did the INE face during this election process? The process was intense and under heavy scrutiny, but the INE maintained its integrity and transparency throughout.