Mexico's Lower House fast-tracks controversial judiciary reform

MEXICO CITY

Lower House lawmakers fast-tracked Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's bill Wednesday to reform the judicial branch -- an initiative that has drawn concerns and criticism as a power move to consolidate the ruling party's control.

The bill, which has stirred nationwide protests and diplomatic frictions with Mexico's trading partners, was fast-tracked by the ruling Morena Party, which holds 73% of the Lower House -- an overwhelming majority achieved following elections in June.

The constitutional reform approved in a 359 - 135 vote will see judges and magistrates at the federal level elected in a popular vote.

Critics, including workers and members of Mexico's judiciary, who have shut down tribunals and courtrooms in the country in protest of the reform, have rejected the bill since it could potentially tamper with the body's functioning and neutrality, turning justices into political subjects and making them susceptible to political corruption.

Lopez Obrador, however, said the reform was necessary to clean up the judiciary, which he said it corrupt and at the service of political and economic elites.

US and Canadian ambassadors Ken Salazar and Graeme Clark, respectively, have expressed concerns about the potential negative effect the bill could have on Mexico's democracy and investment climate.

President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, who will take office Oct. 1, has assured that the reform is for the betterment of the country and that it will not hurt international trade and investment.

"More democracy, more justice, more freedom. The judiciary reform does not affect our commercial relations nor national or foreign private investments. On the contrary, there will be more and better rule of law and more democracy for all," said Sheinbaum.