Protests Erupt Over Mexico's Judicial Reform Plans

Mexico is facing a contentious debate over proposed judicial reforms by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador that would allow judges to be elected by popular vote, potentially compromising judicial independence and leading to political bias. The reform plan, which includes reducing the number of Supreme Court justices and shortening their terms, has spurred significant protests from students and judicial workers who fear it could empower organized crime and undermine labor rights. U.S. and Canadian ambassadors have voiced concerns that the changes could destabilize investor confidence, leading to a depreciation of the peso. In response, López Obrador rallied tens of thousands of supporters, asserting the necessity of the reforms to combat impunity in Mexico. The legislative vote on these reforms is anticipated soon, with the ruling Morena party holding a majority in the lower house but facing legal challenges regarding the process. The situation remains fluid as critics and supporters of the reforms prepare for the outcome of the vote.