MEXICO CITY — Mexico embarked on an unprecedented path on Sunday as citizens participated in the country’s first-ever judicial elections, a move stirring both controversy and confusion. Voter participation appeared notably low, a development forewarned by analysts considering the bewildering array of new choices and the novelty of voting for judicial candidates. The results of this electoral process, which could reshape Mexico’s judiciary, remain pending as ballots began to be counted after polling stations closed.
Before the elections, skepticism over voter engagement was widespread, given the immense challenge posed by numerous unfamiliar candidates. Critics argue that low turnout could challenge the election’s validity, already subject to intense political debate for months. Many citizens seemed either apathetic or disillusioned, citing prolonged systemic corruption and a lack of comprehensive information about the election itself.
Some voters considered the elections pivotal for the nation’s democratic fabric, while others, like Raul Bernal, a 50-year-old factory worker, expressed indifference. He dismissed political parties and candidates as interchangeable, citing disinterest in the process as he strolled in downtown Mexico City.
Mexico’s ruling party, Morena, has initiated significant reforms in the judiciary, stirring protests and accusations of attempting to consolidate power over a previously independent arm of government. Laurence Patin, from the legal advocacy group Juicio Justo, remarked on the potential impacts on democracy, highlighting the judiciary’s role in maintaining checks and balances.
Instead of appointing judges based on merit, voters now face the task of selecting from approximately 7,700 candidates applying for over 2,600 judicial positions. Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s President and a member of Morena, defended the electoral process, arguing it enhances democracy and addresses corruption within the judiciary. Rejecting claims of authoritarianism, she emphasized that the initiative reflects public will towards a more just society.
Several polling centers witnessed a slow trickle of voters. Esteban Hernández, a 31-year-old veterinary student, participated reluctantly, prioritizing his preference for scholarly credentials in candidates despite disagreeing with the election method and opposing Morena.
The election process itself, which Hernández described as overwhelming due to the sheer number of candidates, also drew criticism. Nonetheless, existing voter guides intended to inform voters have been scrutinized by the electoral authority, who suspect they may bias the election in favor of certain political parties.
Former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, instrumental in the judicial reform, also participated in the vote, emphasizing its unprecedented nature. However, concerns remain, with candidates including figures tied to criminal activities such as drug trafficking and corruption scandals.
Despite the hurdles, some voters like Manuel José Contreras remained hopeful, casting their ballots with the belief that change was necessary despite the election’s procedural complexities. As the country awaits the outcomes, the elections are likely to evoke continued debate and reflection on the path forward for Mexico’s judiciary.