Controversial Judicial Reform in Mexico Sparks International Concerns

Mexico's Congress will debate a controversial judicial reform next week, raising concerns from Canada and the U.S. about its potential impact on investment and trade. The reform aims to elect judges by popular vote, sparking debates on its implications for democracy and judicial independence.

A controversial reform of Mexico's judiciary will be debated and voted on in Congress next week, a leading ruling party lawmaker announced on Wednesday. The reform has raised concerns from Canada and the U.S., who are worried about its potential impact on investment and trade.

The Canadian government emphasized its respect for Mexico's sovereignty but noted that investors are uneasy about the reform, which includes electing judges, including Supreme Court justices, by popular vote. This follows strong criticism from U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar, who labeled the reform a 'major risk to Mexico’s democracy.'

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador responded on Tuesday by pausing relations with the Canadian and U.S. embassies over their criticisms. Ricardo Monreal, set to lead the ruling party in the lower house, confirmed that the bill would not pass the same day and requires thorough discussion. Thousands of judicial workers in Mexico are striking in protest against the reform.