Mexico’s Judicial Elections Stir Controversy Amid Criminal Past of Candidates

Mexico’s first-ever judicial elections, set for June 1, are sparking nationwide concern as several candidates with criminal records or cartel links appear on the ballot. In Durango, Leopoldo Chavez is running for federal judge despite serving six years in a U.S. prison for smuggling methamphetamine. In Jalisco, Francisco Hernandez, dismissed previously over sexual abuse and corruption allegations, seeks a magistrate role. Meanwhile, Fernando Escamilla in Nuevo Leon defends his past legal advice to the Los Zetas cartel as professional work.

The reform, championed by former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and current President Claudia Sheinbaum, aims to combat judicial corruption by letting citizens vote for judges. But critics, including legal watchdogs and rights groups like Defensorxs, warn it may instead open doors to organized crime. Over 5,000 candidates are competing for 840 federal posts, including all Supreme Court seats.

Concerns include poorly vetted candidates, confusing ballots, and reduced judicial standards. The reform also cuts the number of Supreme Court justices and removes key eligibility requirements like age and legal experience. Defensorxs identified at least 20 candidates with serious red flags, including Silvia Delgado, who represented drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and now seeks a judgeship in Chihuahua.

Electoral authorities admit vetting flaws and say unqualified winners will be disqualified after the vote. Most current Supreme Court justices are opting not to run and will resign. Critics argue the rushed process risks politicizing the judiciary and empowering criminal interests.

Despite mounting criticism, the government and election officials insist the vote will proceed as planned. Civil society organizations stress the need for transparency, urging voters to scrutinize candidate backgrounds carefully before casting their ballots.