Unions in Mexico Launch Nationwide Strike Over Judicial Reform Plans
Unions representing Mexico's judicial workers have initiated an "indefinite" nationwide strike in response to proposed votes by lawmakers to revamp the country's judicial branch, including the shift towards popular election of most judges.
The unions have criticized the rushed nature of the reform and its potential threat to the balance of power in the face of the ruling Morena party's control over the presidency and Congress. With around 55,000 workers in Mexico's judiciary, the unions also expressed concerns over the elimination of merit-based career paths under the proposed constitutional reform.
Outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has made the judicial reform a key priority, with the newly-elected Congress set to vote on it next month during his final weeks in office. However, investors have raised alarms over the potential for politicized or uncertain legal decisions if the reform is approved by the required two-thirds majority of lawmakers needed to amend the constitution.
Morena party seems to have secured enough votes in last June's elections to push through the reform, causing further unease among investors.
Analysis: The ongoing strike in Mexico over judicial reform highlights the potential impact of political decisions on the country's legal system and broader investment climate. Investors are concerned about the implications of a shift towards popularly elected judges and the possible erosion of merit-based practices in the judiciary. These developments could introduce uncertainty and risks for businesses operating in Mexico, impacting investment decisions and overall economic stability. It is essential for investors to monitor the situation closely and assess the implications of these reforms on their portfolios.