Mexican Chamber of Deputies Approves Controversial Reforms Pushed by President López Obrador

The Mexican Chamber of Deputies has approved two controversial reforms pushed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in the final stretch of his term, just over a month before the general elections on June 2, 2024. The reforms, which grant the president expanded powers and limit judicial oversight, were passed by the majority of the ruling Morena party and its allies despite strong opposition from other parties.

One reform grants the president the power to grant amnesty to those who provide verifiable information in cases deemed "relevant to the State," which the president himself can determine. Critics argue this provision could lead to impunity and the discretionary use of presidential power, undermining victims' right to reparation. The amnesty measure is seen by some as a potential tool to help clarify high-profile cases like the 2014 disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa.

The other reform to the Amparo Law will prevent judges from suspending challenged norms and public works projects, which has paralyzed numerous presidential initiatives in the past and been a major source of conflict between President López Obrador and the judiciary. The changes aim to avoid judicial blockades that have affected some of the president's key reforms and projects, such as the energy reform and the emblematic Tren Maya tourism train.

Why this matters: The passage of these reforms marks a significant shift in the balance of power in Mexico, expanding presidential authority while weakening judicial checks. The controversial measures have heightened tensions between the president and opposition forces ahead of the upcoming elections.

Opposition parties have resoundingly rejected the reforms, with some calling the amnesty provision a "blank check" that will promote impunity. Human rights organizations have also warned that the discretionary use of amnesty powers could undermine the rights of victims. Despite the criticism, the Morena party and its allies leveraged their majority to push through the president's agenda in the final weeks of the legislative session.

Key Takeaways

• Mexico's Congress approved 2 controversial reforms expanding presidential powers.
• One reform grants president amnesty power for "relevant" cases, raising impunity concerns.
• The other reform prevents judges from suspending challenged norms and projects.
• The reforms shift power balance, weakening judicial checks on the president.
• Reforms passed despite opposition criticism, heightening tensions before 2024 elections.