In September, judicial staff protested against the introduction of a direct election system for judges in Mexico [AFP Yonhap News file photo]. According to the Mexican presidency, 18,000 people have applied for next year’s direct elections for judges in Mexico.
Arturo Zaldívar, former Chief Justice of Mexico and current Chief of Staff to the President, attended President Claudia Sheinbaum’s regular press conference on the 25th local time. He stated that 18,447 people have completed online registration to run for the judicial election to elect about 880 judges.
He further explained, “After verifying the eligibility of the candidates by December 14, a separate evaluation committee will shortlist the final candidates.”
For the Supreme Court, which consists of nine members, 480 people have applied as candidates for justices.
Previously, the Mexican Congress introduced a direct election system for all judges, allowing them to be selected by popular vote. According to AP News, Mexico is expected to become the first country where citizens directly elect judges.