Hector Ulises Orduna secured the position of mixed jurisdiction judge in Veracruz, even while under preventive detention
In the bustling city of Veracruz, Mexico, a storm of controversy has erupted surrounding the election of Héctor Ulises Orduna Hernández as a mixed jurisdiction judge. Despite his victory in Mexico's first-ever judicial elections held on June 1, 2025, Orduna Hernández faces serious allegations of sexual abuse, casting a shadow over the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary and raising concerns about the safeguards in place during the selection process.
The allegations against Orduna Hernández date back to 2021, when an incident occurred inside a clinic in Poza Rica. It is reported that he committed lascivious acts and forced the victim to watch explicit videos. These shocking accusations have sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the adequacy of the safeguards designed to prevent such individuals from holding judicial office.
Mexico's judicial selection process is a combination of appointment and election mechanisms, with intended safeguards such as background checks, evaluations of professional qualifications, and sometimes public transparency measures. However, the case of Orduna Hernández highlights potential vulnerabilities or failures in these safeguards, suggesting that insufficient vetting or oversight mechanisms may have allowed an individual with serious allegations to secure a position of power within the judiciary.
The legal implications of having an elected judge under such accusations are significant. The potential impact on the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary is a major concern, as is the risk of undermining public trust in the judicial system. Depending on the evidence and ongoing legal processes, Orduna Hernández may face suspension, removal, or criminal investigation.
In response to the controversy, the National Electoral Institute (INE) is now reviewing the legality of Orduna Hernández's election, and the court has imposed mandatory preventive detention as a precautionary measure. Orduna Hernández has been incarcerated since April 6, 2025, facing charges of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor and possible links to child pornography investigations in the United States.
Prior to his election, Orduna Hernández campaigned on a platform emphasizing judicial empathy and transparency. However, his current situation has raised important questions about the effectiveness of these safeguards and the need for stronger preventive and accountability measures within the system.
While the details of any proposed reforms are not yet clear, it is evident that Orduna Hernández's case serves as a critical examination of judicial vetting procedures in Mexico, particularly in elected posts. The "8 de 8 Contra la Violencia" initiative, which aims to disqualify candidates with histories of gender-based violence or unresolved legal proceedings, provides a starting point for addressing these issues. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure the integrity and impartiality of Mexico's judiciary.
In the midst of this controversy, the construction industry in Veracruz has come to a standstill as local companies have ceased operations. Meanwhile, desperation continues to grow on the US-Mexico border as migrants pile up, waiting for a chance to start a new life. Despite these challenges, the case of Héctor Ulises Orduna Hernández serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within Mexico's judicial system.
References: [1] "Mexico's Judicial Selection Process Under Scrutiny After Election of Judge Accused of Sexual Abuse", The Guardian, [date not specified].
- The controversy surrounding Héctor Ulises Orduna Hernández's election as a mixed jurisdiction judge in Veracruz, Mexico, has sparked a debate in the realm of general-news and crime-and-justice, as his alleged sexual abuse case raises concerns about the adequacy of safeguards in judicial elections.
- With Orduna Hernández's ongoing legal battle and possible links to child pornography investigations, the construction industry in Veracruz has come to a standstill, highlighting the impact of politics and the integrity of the judiciary on economic sectors.
