Background on Key Figures and Their Relevance
Claudia Sheinbaum: The current head of government in Mexico City, Sheinbaum is a prominent politician and former federal deputy. As the Chief of Government, she plays a crucial role in shaping policies and ensuring their implementation within the capital city.
Arturo Zaldívar: A former Minister of the Supreme Court of Justice of Mexico, Zaldívar is a respected legal figure with extensive experience in constitutional law. His current role as the coordinator of Política y Gobierno (Policy and Government) highlights his ongoing influence in shaping legal policies.
The Amparo Law Reform and Concerns Over Retroactivity
In a recent press conference at Palacio Nacional, Sheinbaum and Zaldívar addressed concerns regarding the proposed reform to Mexico’s Amparo Law. The duo requested adjustments to the draft to dispel confusion, criticism, and legitimate concerns.
Zaldívar’s Explanation of the Concerns
Arturo Zaldívar explained that the first transitional article approved by the Senate lacks clarity and has sparked unnecessary debate, criticism, and legitimate concerns. He emphasized that the Constitution explicitly prohibits retroactive application of laws to the detriment of individuals.
Zaldívar clarified that, as a procedural law, the Amparo Law governs court proceedings and processes rather than substantive rights. He assured that existing suspensions or prior resolutions would not be affected by the changes, which would only apply to future stages such as electronic notifications or more efficient timelines.
The Debate in Congress
Following the Senate’s approval of a transitional article that could be interpreted as applicable to ongoing lawsuits, Sheinbaum and Zaldívar’s clarifications became necessary. Now, it is up to the Cámara de Diputados (Chamber of Deputies) to decide whether to maintain the original text or incorporate the suggested amendments.
Sheinbaum’s Commitment to Constitutional Integrity
Sheinbaum reiterated her government’s stance against any acts contrary to the Constitution. She emphasized that their intention is to provide legal certainty and strengthen trust in the judicial system.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Amparo Law? The Amparo Law in Mexico is a procedural law that governs court proceedings and processes related to protecting constitutional rights.
- Why are Sheinbaum and Zaldívar concerned about the reform? They are worried that the proposed changes could be interpreted retroactively, potentially affecting existing suspensions and resolutions, which would contradict the Constitution.
- What changes are they requesting? Sheinbaum and Zaldívar are asking for clarifications in the reform’s wording to ensure that it does not have retroactive effects and only applies to future stages of court proceedings.
- What is the role of Congress in this matter? The Chamber of Deputies must now decide whether to accept the original text or incorporate the suggested adjustments proposed by Sheinbaum and Zaldívar.
