Yesterday, the plenary session of the Chamber of Deputies began with discussions and voting on opinions Related to judicial reforms promoted by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
The debate comes amid criticism from the opposition, a paralysis of activity by the federation’s judicial branch staff and judges, and despite a decision by a federal judge, who temporarily suspended the talks.
Part of judicial reform A package of 20 proposals that the president presented in February To change various aspects of the constitution. Questions include opinions Three notable changes are detailed below.
Reshuffle in Judges and Magistrates Elections
The proposed opinion suggested amending Article 95 of the Constitution so as to Ministers of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), In addition, members of the Superior Chamber and Electoral Tribunal of the Judicial Branch of the Federation (TEPJF) are elected through free, direct and secret ballot. for 12 years instead of the present 15 years.
An extraordinary election will be held in 2025 to renew these positions, and Current residents can apply, Reported by the Secretary of the Interior, Luisa Maria Alcalde, in February.
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Candidates must be aspiring for ministerial positions A law degree with a minimum GPA of 8.0 and 9.0 At least five years of experience in the legal field as well as related to the position.
Applicants must be present “A three-page essay explaining your reasons for candidacy and providing five letters of recommendation from neighbors, colleagues or individuals who support your suitability for the position.”
In the case of SCJN Ministers, the term in office shall be Eight, 11 or 14 years oldDepending on the outcome of the polls.
Currently, ministers are proposed by the president through a shortlist, and their selection requires the support of at least two-thirds of senators during a vote. Magistrates and judges are appointed by the Federal Judiciary Council.
The initiative establishes that each branch of power (executive, judicial and congressional) An evaluation committee consisting of five persons “recognized in legal field” shall be constituted To analyze the application. The National Electoral Institute (INE) will be in charge of counting the votes, publishing the results and issuing majority certificates to the candidates who received the most votes.
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Reorganization of SCJN
Opinions have also been given for amending the third clause of Article 94 of the Constitution. Reducing the number of SCJN ministers from 11 to 9 and reducing their term of office from 15 to 12 years.
Presidency of the Supreme Court It shall be renewed every two years on a rolling basis According to the votes received in the election, similar to the position of President who will receive the most votes, according to their opinion. At present the ministers elect their president.
Besides, The existing two chambers of the Supreme Court will be abolished, Only hold plenary sessions, which are to be held Public and transparent To ensure access to topics discussed.
It is also thought Abolition of lifetime pension for present and future ministers, And adjusting their salaries to the maximum set for the President of Mexico, which, according to the federal government, is approx 8 thousand dollars per month.
Replacement of Federal Judicial Council
Recommends reforms Replace the Federal Judiciary Council (CJF), Two new institutions are responsible for the administration and supervision of judges: Judicial Disciplinary Court and Judicial Administration Body.
The Judicial Disciplinary Court shall be in charge of administrative functions, Judicial career, internal control and budget formulation of judicial branch.
Judicial Administration Body It will consist of five persons appointed for six years. The executive branch will appoint one, the Senate another and the SCJN three.
President of this organization Members shall change every two years on a rotating basis, According to the results of the polls.
Its functions shall include receiving complaints from any person or authority and investigating ministers, magistrates, judges and judicial staff for acts contrary to law or administration of justice.
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Also introduces the image of reformation “The Faceless Judge” To protect those handling organized crime cases. “In case of organized crime, the judicial administration may take necessary action Protect security and protect the identity of judges.” The document indicates.
Currently, CJF consists of seven members: The President of the Supreme Court (who presides over the Council), three magistrates and district judges appointed by the Full Court, two advisers appointed by the Senate, and one by the President of Mexico.
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