Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has characterized the country’s recent judicial election as a “success,” despite a notably low voter turnout of just 13 percent from eligible citizens and significant confusion surrounding the process. Critics argue that this outcome raises serious concerns about the judiciary’s independence, with fears that organized crime might exploit the weakened system.
The historic election aimed to appoint about 880 federal judges, including members of the Supreme Court, as well as many local judges and magistrates. However, many voters reported difficulties in making informed choices among the numerous candidates, many of whom were unfamiliar and unable to campaign openly due to restrictions on party affiliations.
Reports from polling stations indicated they were “largely empty,” with many citizens opting to abstain rather than participate in what was intended to be a transformative electoral process. Sheinbaum, however, maintained that the election reflects a progressive movement towards democracy and a more just Mexico.
Despite some supporters defending the reform as essential for addressing corruption within the justice system—a sentiment initially championed by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador—analysts have sounded alarms of potential criminal infiltration in the judiciary. Various experts have noted that the convoluted election process and large pool of candidates increase the susceptibility of the election to organized crime influences.
Human rights organizations have flagged about 20 candidates as “high risk,” some of whom have ties to notorious criminal figures, including a former lawyer for Sinaloa cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Concerns linger that these candidates, despite being mandated to have legal qualifications and a clean background, could pose a threat to judicial integrity.
As election results are anticipated in the near future, a second round of judicial elections is scheduled for 2027, which could further shape the future landscape of Mexico’s court system.
This electoral activity, while fraught with challenges, presents an opportunity for increased attention to judicial reform and the need for enhanced voter education to ensure a more informed electorate when it comes to such critical positions in the government.