Investment concerns related to ongoing judicial changes and impending electoral matters: Coparmex raises alarm over potential "democratic deterioration" in Mexico
In a recent conference, the Mexican Employers' Confederation (Coparmex) raised concerns about a potential democratic setback due to the proposed electoral reform in Mexico. Coparmex, which champions the interests of businesses in the country, is urging caution to avoid undermining democratic processes.
According to Juan José Sierra Álvarez, the president of Coparmex, the country is currently experiencing a "democratic erosion process." He believes that previous mistakes made in judicial reforms, such as the "judicial election" being considered a "strategic institutional capture" that broke the democratic balance of powers, should serve as a warning.
The proposed electoral reform, if implemented, could modify representation in the Congress, potentially leading to a concentrated power without criticism or competition. This, Sierra Álvarez warns, could lead to a "disguised autocracy" rather than democracy.
Rubén Furlong Martínez, the president of the National Commission for Civic Strengthening and Democracy of Coparmex, pointed out several issues with the recent elections. These include the lack of chain of ballot tracking, differences between official results, high observer participation, but no possibility of influencing the process, use of mechanisms alien to merit, lack of structural impartiality, and invasion of powers in the elections.
Martínez emphasized the need for a new process based on merit, with clear rules, and independent bodies that validate the current model. He believes that such a change is crucial to maintain democratic integrity in the face of significant reforms.
Coparmex also highlighted the importance of security and legal certainty for economic confidence, investment, and business growth. Without respect for the law and decisive action against impunity, any political or electoral reform risks further destabilizing the environment necessary for investment. This concern is heightened as Mexico approaches the 2025 general elections.
In Sinaloa, 2,000 companies have already closed due to violence, underscoring the need for public safety to remain a top priority to sustain Mexico’s economic recovery and democratic foundation.
The reform of the Judicial Power, elimination of autonomous bodies, and the next electoral reform are putting all freedoms at stake, including expression, belief, investment, entrepreneurship, and free trade of goods. The electoral reform is adding to the global uncertainty, including the threat of tariffs and the review of a treaty.
Coparmex also expressed the need to be strategic in strengthening the bilateral relationship with the United States. Sierra Álvarez warned that reforms weakening fundamental rights are not the way to strengthen the Rule of Law. Instead, they could lead to a democratic setback, potentially harming investment by increasing uncertainty and negatively affecting the business climate.
References: [1] Coparmex (2022). Press Release: Coparmex Warns of Potential Democratic Setback with Proposed Electoral Reform in Mexico. Retrieved from https://www.coparmex.org.mx/noticias/coparmex-advierte-de-un-potencial-receso-democratico-con-la-propuesta-de-reforma-electoral-en-mexico [2] Coparmex (2022). Press Release: Coparmex Urges Caution to Avoid Undermining Democratic Processes. Retrieved from https://www.coparmex.org.mx/noticias/coparmex-llama-a-la-precaución-para-no-dejar-desprendidas-procesos-democraticos
The ongoing concerns about the proposed electoral reform in Mexico, as expressed by Coparmex, could potentially impact the 'policy-and-legislation' of 'politics'. Coparmex's president, Juan José Sierra Álvarez, stated that failing to uphold democratic principles could lead to a "disguised autocracy" instead of democracy, which might adversely affect 'general-news'. Moreover, the lack of transparency and structural impartiality in recent elections, as pointed out by Rubén Furlong Martínez of Coparmex, is a major concern for the 'news' regarding the state of democracy in Mexico.
