A democratic milestone under pressure
This Sunday, Mexico writes an unprecedented chapter in its democratic history with the first direct election of judicial positions, a process that has tested the operational capacity of the National Electoral Institute (INE). The day, described by experts as an “unprecedented logistical challenge”, takes place in a context of budget cuts, tight deadlines and political tensions with the federal government.
Budget controversy and limited time
The electoral body initially requested 13 billion pesos to finance the process, a figure that generated rejection from the Executive. President Claudia Sheinbaum and Morena legislators considered the amount excessive, comparing it to the 12 billion spent in the June presidential election. After negotiations, the final budget was reduced to 6,219 million, with subsequent increases of 800 million.
Time was also a critical factor. The judicial reform promoted by the previous government of Andrés Manuel López Obrador left the INE barely three months to organize the elections. “We are not being given the necessary elements,” warned counselor Dania Ravel, while the organization reduced the cells from 172,000 to 80,000 and optimized human and material resources.
Innovations and positions at stake
Despite the adversities, the INE implemented improvements to speed up voting:
- Unique ballot boxes to simplify voting
- Sectional boxes with up to 15 screens
- Identification with credential and finger marking with indelible liquid
In total, 881 positions will be elected, including:
- 9 ministers of the Supreme Court
- 464 circuit magistrates
- 386 district judges
Transparency under scrutiny
The INE promised to broadcast the scrutiny live from the district councils, seeking to regain citizen trust in an institution that has faced pressure for its disappearance. “It is a litmus test for Mexican democracy,” said political analyst Jorge Castañeda.
What’s next? The preliminary results will be known 48 hours after the polls close, marking the beginning of a new model of justice in Mexico.
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