Mexico City, October 2023 — In a surprising turn of events, Mexican Supreme Court Justice Alfredo Gutierrez has announced his resignation, effective at the end of August 2025. This move comes amidst a controversial judicial reform that has heightened tensions between the Supreme Court and the ruling government bloc.
In a letter released on Tuesday, Justice Gutierrez, who has served on the bench since 2012, stated his intention to step down. “It is necessary to underscore that this resignation does not imply an implicit acceptance of the reform’s constitutionality,” he wrote, signaling his dissent towards the sweeping changes proposed.
The judicial reform, passed last month by Congress with overwhelming support from the ruling party Morena, aims to overhaul Mexico’s judiciary by reducing the number of Supreme Court justices from eleven to nine and introducing popular elections for judges, magistrates, and ministers. This reform was initially proposed by former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and is set to be implemented under new President Claudia Sheinbaum.
With an impending deadline for justices wishing not to participate in the upcoming elections to announce their resignations by Friday, rumors abound that up to eight of the current eleven justices may step down. Senate President Gerardo Fernandez Norona mentioned in a press conference that these resignations could be announced imminently.
The Supreme Court is currently deliberating a challenge to the constitutionality of the reform, with only three justices publicly supporting it. The resignation of key figures like Justice Gutierrez adds to the uncertainty and raises concerns over a potential constitutional crisis as the judiciary grapples with the executive and legislative branches over the future of Mexico’s legal system.
Experts like Gustavo Flores-Macias, a government and public policy specialist at Cornell University, view Gutierrez’s resignation as a symbolic protest. “He’s making a point in his resignation letter to highlight the importance of the judiciary remaining beyond the political tides of the moment,” Flores-Macias explained, emphasizing the critical role of judicial independence.
The reform has not only stirred domestic controversy but also strained Mexico’s international relations. Both the United States and Canada, Mexico’s largest trading partners, have expressed concerns over the potential impacts on the rule of law. Former President Lopez Obrador openly criticized the ambassadors of both countries for their public opposition, stating that relations were “suspended” with their embassies. However, President Sheinbaum and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar have since indicated that diplomatic relations continue as usual.
As Mexico approaches the June elections for new Supreme Court justices, the nation watches closely. The outcome will significantly influence the judiciary’s independence and the balance of power within the government. For citizens, investors, and observers worldwide, the unfolding events mark a pivotal moment in Mexico’s democratic journey.
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Mexico Supreme Court justice announces resignation, more expected
cgtn.com
