World’s First: Mexico lets voters pick all judges
Mexico is preparing for a historic election that will allow citizens to choose all judges and magistrates, including those who sit on the Supreme Court.
This is the first time such an event is happening around the world.
The reform, backed by the government, aims to fight corruption and impunity in the justice system. Officials say that letting voters decide who holds key judicial positions will help restore public trust and ensure accountability.
The first round of voting takes place on Sunday, June 1, when Mexicans will elect thousands of judges at the federal, district, and local levels.
The remaining positions are expected to be filled in a second election in 2027.
Candidates must have a law degree, experience in legal matters, no criminal record, and what the law describes as a good reputation.
Supporters say the move is long overdue and will open up a system often seen as distant and corrupt. But critics fear the reform will weaken judicial independence and open the door for criminal influence.
Among those expressing concern are legal experts and court workers, who have staged protests across the country.
Some warn that campaigning for votes could push judges to act like politicians rather than neutral legal experts.
Others point to candidates with links to high-profile criminal cases, such as a former lawyer for convicted drug kingpin Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.
“Justice is not something you vote for, it takes knowledge and experience,” 28-year-old lawyer Olimpia Rojas Luviano was quoted as saying.
The outcome of Sunday’s vote could reshape the country’s justice system and set a global precedent for how far democracy can go in deciding who sits on the bench.
