Mexico Roundup: Killings, heat waves, judicial reforms

Heatwaves cause severe drought

Thousands of fish are dying in a lagoon in northern Mexico as it dries up due to a severe drought. The low water level has led to concentrated pollutants, threatening the species in the area. According to Phys.Org, this is happening as Mexico faces high temperatures and a record-breaking heatwave, with 125 deaths reported due to the hot weather. 

Man and woman die from electrocution

A 43-year-old man from Texas died and a 35-year-old woman was injured by electrocution in a hot tub at a resort in northwest Mexico. The incident occurred at a complex of private condominiums in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. CBS News reports that the woman remains in critical condition. Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the electrical failure. Last June, a man died from apparent electrocution while repairing a hot tub in Phoenix.

Science and innovation

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, a climate scientist, has become the first female president of Mexico with promises to prioritise science and innovation. Her stance on academic freedom and research funding remains uncertain. According to Times Higher Education, while some hope for change, others are skeptical about the extent of her departure from her predecessor's policies. The future of Mexico's controversial science law, which directs research funding, is also uncertain and could be influenced by the new administration. There is hope for a shift in tone, but challenges remain in reversing funding cuts and ensuring academic independence. 

Lawmakers killed after elections

Two female lawmakers in Mexico were killed days apart following the election of the country's first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum. A local councilwoman was gunned down on Friday, marking the second female politician to be killed after Sheinbaum's election, CBS reports.

Judicial reforms

Mexican President Lopez Obrador says market turbulence won't derail efforts to reform the judiciary, which he claims is corrupt. Market Screener reports that the ruling party's strong performance in recent elections has sparked market volatility but has also boosted their ability to pass constitutional reforms.