So, I’ve been thinking a lot about some of the conversations I’ve had and news articles I’ve come across about the direction Mexico is heading. It’s hard to ignore the growing concerns about the government becoming less democratic, especially with all the changes happening under AMLO’s presidency. Let me share with you what I’ve learned and some key points that might shed some light on the situation.

The Erosion of Democratic Institutions

National Electoral Institute (INE): One of the primary concerns revolves around AMLO’s actions against the INE, Mexico’s independent electoral body responsible for ensuring free and fair elections. AMLO has frequently criticized the INE, accusing it of corruption and inefficiency, and has pushed for legislation to limit its powers. This has raised fears about undermining the institution’s ability to conduct impartial elections, which is a cornerstone of democracy.

Legislative Push and Political Interference: AMLO’s administration has proposed significant changes to the INE, including reducing its budget and altering its leadership structure. These proposals have sparked widespread concern among political analysts and opposition parties, who argue that such changes could lead to increased political interference in the electoral process. Critics assert that these moves are designed to weaken the INE’s independence and make it more susceptible to governmental control, thereby compromising the integrity of elections.

Public Trust and Institutional Integrity: The INE has historically been viewed as a trusted institution in Mexico, crucial for maintaining democratic norms since its establishment. However, AMLO’s persistent attacks and proposed reforms have eroded public trust in the INE. Observers fear that this erosion of trust may lead to decreased voter confidence in electoral outcomes and reduced participation in the democratic process, which could destabilize the country’s political landscape.

Centralization of Power

Budget Control: AMLO’s administration has taken discretionary control over the federal budget, bypassing traditional checks and balances. This centralization of fiscal power has weakened autonomous institutions that are essential for a functioning democracy.

Reduction of Salaries: As part of his anti-corruption campaign, AMLO slashed top government salaries, including his own. While symbolic, critics argue this move consolidates his image as a populist leader while sidestepping broader structural reforms needed to combat systemic corruption.

Weakening of Opposition Parties

Budget Cuts and Autonomy: AMLO has also targeted independent agencies that serve as checks on his power. He has slashed budgets for organizations like the INE and COFECE (Mexico’s antitrust commission), and has been accused of attempting to neutralize these bodies to consolidate his control. Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader effort to erode democratic checks and balances and centralize authority within the executive branch.

Public and Legal Backlash: AMLO’s efforts to overhaul the INE and other independent institutions have faced significant backlash from civil society and political opponents. Mass protests have been organized to defend the autonomy of the INE, with participants arguing that these reforms threaten the integrity of Mexico’s democracy. Legal challenges have also been mounted, with the Mexican Supreme Court set to review the constitutionality of some of these reforms.

Judicial Manipulation: AMLO has been accused of politicizing the judiciary by appointing close allies to the Supreme Court and other key positions. This strategy is seen as an attempt to ensure favorable rulings for his administration and further weaken the independence of judicial institutions. Such moves have raised alarms about the erosion of judicial checks on executive power.

Public Sentiment and Civil Society

Disillusionment with Democracy: Despite initial hopes, many Mexicans feel disillusioned with the democratic process due to continued corruption, economic struggles, and rampant violence. This disillusionment has fueled support for AMLO’s populist rhetoric and policies, which some see as veering towards authoritarianism rather than reinforcing democratic principles.

Historical Context

Legacy of PRI Rule: Mexico’s history of hegemonic-party rule under the PRI still casts a long shadow. The transition to democracy in the late 20th century brought hopes for change, but persistent issues like corruption and economic inequality have led to skepticism about the true extent of democratic reforms. The return of PRI-like tactics under AMLO further exacerbates these concerns.

While AMLO’s presidency has introduced significant changes, many Mexicans are wary of the potential shift towards authoritarianism, given his centralization of power and actions against independent institutions. These concerns highlight the fragile state of Mexico’s democracy and the ongoing struggle to achieve a truly representative and accountable government.

Sources

Brookings Institution

  • “Mexico takes another step toward its authoritarian past.” Brookings Institution, www.brookings.edu/articles/mexico-takes-another-step-toward-its-authoritarian-past/.

Council on Hemispheric Affairs

  • “Democracy in Mexico: The Past, Present, and Future.” Council on Hemispheric Affairs, www.coha.org/democracy-in-mexico-the-past-present-and-future/.

The Nation

  • “Protests Against AMLO’s Reforms Reveal the Strongholds of Mexico’s Ancien Régime.” The Nation, www.thenation.com/article/world/mexico-amlo-ine/.

Voice of America

  • “Thousands Protest Against Electoral Overhaul in Mexico.” Voice of America, www.voanews.com/a/thousands-protest-against-electoral-overhaul-in-mexico/6598995.html.

Americas Quarterly

  • “AMLO and Mexico’s Most Important Electoral Body Are on a Collision Course.” Americas Quarterly, www.americasquarterly.org/article/amlo-and-mexicos-most-important-electoral-body-are-on-a-collision-course/.

Wilson Center

  • “Mexico Institute Experts Comment on AMLO’s Proposed Reforms.” Wilson Center, www.wilsoncenter.org/article/mexico-institute-experts-comment-amlos-proposed-reforms.

Foreign Policy Research Institute

  • “The Future of Mexico under AMLO.” Foreign Policy Research Institute, www.fpri.org/article/2020/10/the-future-of-mexico-under-amlo/.