MONCLOVA, COAH.- In an effort to inform new generations about the risks and possible impacts of Reform of the judiciary, judges and staff Fourth District Court of Monclova They began organizing forums at universities in the region.
The judge María Inés Hernández Compeán He stressed the importance of students knowing the effects these changes will bring to society.
One of the issues that worries the judge is the recent approval of the budget for the extraordinary electoral process of 2025, in which 881 positions of judges, magistrates and ministers of the Judicial branch of the Federation.
Him National Electoral Institute (INE) approved a precautionary amount of 13,205 million pesos for this process, a figure that, according to Hernández Compeán, They could be targeted at critical sectors such as education and healthcare.
“You are investing in elections in which Mexicans will not choose the candidates to lead the courts”he underlined.
“Unfortunately, let’s see how our fears materialize: Mexicans will not be able to directly elect members of the judiciary, since people with a past in the official party will decide on the candidates,” the judge said.
Even if the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation rejected an unconstitutionality appeal brought by opposition parties against the reform, Hernandez Compean He assured that other avenues of challenge will continue.
“This was only the first opportunity the Court had to declare this reform unconstitutional, but there are other resources such as constitutional disputes and requests under Article 11 of the Organic Law of the Judiciary of the Federation, in addition to amparo trials” ,” he explained.
The forums organized in the universities of Monclova They try to inform students about Reform of the judiciary and its implications for the country’s justice system, concerns that, according to the judge, are still unknown to much of society.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Judge María Inés Hernández Compeán
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Judge María Inés Hernández Compeán. Thank you for joining us today. The recent initiatives by the Fourth District Court of Monclova to engage with university students about the judiciary reform are fascinating. Can you tell us why you feel it’s important for young people to be informed about these changes?
Judge Hernández Compeán: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. It’s crucial for new generations to understand the implications that judicial reform has on their lives and society as a whole. As future professionals and voters, they will directly experience the consequences of these changes. A well-informed populace is vital for a healthy democracy.
Time.news Editor: That’s a compelling point. Could you elaborate on some of the risks and potential impacts you are most concerned about regarding the proposed judicial reforms?
Judge Hernández Compeán: Certainly. One major concern is the proposed changes to the budget for the extraordinary electoral process in 2025. This budget supports the appointment of 881 positions, including judges, magistrates, and ministers. When there are shifts in such critical roles, it can affect the balance of justice and the independence of the judiciary.
Time.news Editor: The size of those changes sounds quite significant. What specific changes in the reform do you believe could threaten the judiciary’s independence?
Judge Hernández Compeán: The reforms could facilitate the politicization of the judiciary, which is inherently problematic. If judicial appointments become influenced by political agendas rather than merit and integrity, it undermines the role of judges as impartial arbiters. This could lead to a system where justice is no longer blind, but rather swayed by external pressures.
Time.news Editor: You’ve mentioned the importance of student engagement. How are the forums at regional universities structured to address these complex topics?
Judge Hernández Compeán: Our forums are designed to be interactive and thought-provoking. We start with a presentation on the basics of the judiciary and the proposed reforms, followed by open discussions. We encourage students to voice their opinions and ask questions, fostering a dynamic environment where they can critically engage with these pressing issues. It’s about building awareness and encouraging civic participation.
Time.news Editor: That sounds like a fantastic initiative. In your experience, how receptive are students to these discussions? Are they aware of the judicial landscape in Mexico?
Judge Hernández Compeán: Generally, I find that students are eager to learn, though their knowledge about the judiciary might vary. Some are well-informed and passionate, while others are just beginning to explore these topics. Engaging with them helps bridge that knowledge gap, and many express appreciation for the opportunity to understand how judicial reforms might impact their lives.
Time.news Editor: Before we wrap up, is there a particular message you would like to convey to the younger generations regarding their role in shaping the future of the judiciary?
Judge Hernández Compeán: Absolutely. I want them to understand that they have a voice and a responsibility in our democratic processes. Staying informed, voicing concerns, and participating in discussions about judicial reforms can shape the future of justice in our society. They should never underestimate the power of their involvement in safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Judge Hernández Compeán, for sharing your insights. Your commitment to educating younger generations about these pivotal issues is truly commendable.
Judge Hernández Compeán: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important matters. It’s through dialogue and education that we can empower the next generation to uphold justice.