September 27th, 2024
1. Senate Approves Reform to the National Guard
The Mexican Senate approved a reform on Wednesday that transfers control of the National Guard (GN) to the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) with 86 votes in favor, 42 against, and no abstentions. This initiative, presented by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, will be sent for publication in the Official Journal of the Federation (DOF). Despite being established in 2019 as a civil security force, the GN will now be administered by the Sedena, raising concerns among opponents and national and international organizations about the potential militarization of the country.
Additionally, the reform modifies Article 21 of the Constitution to allow the GN and other military forces to investigate crimes, as well as amending Article 129, which historically limited military functions during peacetime.
El Financiero: Senado aprueba en lo general y particular pase de la Guardia Nacional a Sedena… con voto de Yunes
Aristegui Noticias: Senado aprueba la integración de la Guardia Nacional en la Sedena
2. Diplomatic Tensions Between Mexico and Spain
Diplomatic relations between Mexico and Spain have once again become strained this week following the announcement that the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs will not send a representative to Claudia Sheinbaum’s inauguration as president on October 1. The primary reason for this decision was the exclusion of King Felipe VI, which the Spanish government deemed “unacceptable.” Despite the controversy, Sheinbaum clarified that she had only invited the Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, with whom she had previously discussed the issue.
This diplomatic discord dates back to March 2019, when President López Obrador sent a letter to the King requesting an apology for historical grievances stemming from the Conquest of Mexico, a request that was rejected by the Spanish royal family. Although Spain expressed regret over the situation, Sánchez criticized the exclusion of Felipe VI as “inexplicable,” reaffirming that they would not participate in the ceremony as a form of protest.
Infobae: Presidente de España revela que habló con Sheinbaum; por “discreción” no dará detalles
3. October 1 Declared as a Public Holiday
The Chamber of Deputies approved a reform to Article 74 of the Federal Labor Law (LFT), officially recognizing October 1 as a public holiday to coincide with the inauguration of the federal executive power. This change replaces the holiday previously marked for December 1, following the constitutional reform of 2014 that adjusted the date for presidential transitions. As a result, the labor legislation now aligns with the date when Claudia Sheinbaum will assume the presidency this year.
Since 1970, the LFT has designated the day of transmission of the federal executive power as a mandatory rest day. Now, if an employee works on this day, they are entitled to their daily wage plus an additional double salary, ensuring fair compensation for services rendered on a public holiday.
El Economista: Es oficial, el 1 de octubre será día festivo por el cambio de mando presidencial
4. Constitutional Reforms in Labor Matters
Two significant reforms have been approved in Mexico aimed at enhancing labor and social conditions. The first modification to Article 123 of the Constitution establishes that the determination of minimum wages will never fall below inflation, thereby protecting workers’ purchasing power. This reform also ensures that teachers, police officers, and other professionals receive a monthly salary based on the average registered with the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS).
Additionally, the program “Youth Building the Future” has been elevated to constitutional status, ensuring unemployed youth receive financial support and job training. This initiative seeks to provide opportunities for young people and mitigate the stigma associated with those who are neither studying nor working. While the initiative garnered substantial support, some legislators emphasized the need for more inclusive support that encompasses all vulnerable youth.
El Proceso: Cámara de Diputados aprueba reforma al salario mínimo; pasa al Senado para su discusión
Proceso: Diputados elevan Jóvenes Construyendo el Futuro a rango constitucional
5. Swarm of Microseisms in Mexico City
The recent seismic activity in Mexico City, characterized by several microseisms occurring in a short timeframe, highlights the importance of disaster preparedness in a metropolis situated in one of the most seismically active regions worldwide. Since September 26, at least 12 microseisms have been reported, with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 2.7. These events were confirmed by the Head of Government, who stated that information would be gathered to assess the situation. The National Seismological Service (SSN) reported that the epicenter of these tremors is located in the Álvaro Obregón borough, and no significant damage or injuries have been recorded thus far.
The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) noted that these microseisms are common due to the city’s geographic location in the heart of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, necessitating a proactive approach to education and emergency preparedness among the populace. The combination of recent events and public reaction underscores the need for more effective communication strategies and risk management from authorities.
El N+: CDMX Registra Microsismos Por Segundo Día Consecutivo; Van 2 Hoy 27 de Septiembre de 2024
Infobae: Enjambre de microsismos en CDMX: Termina el jueves 26 de septiembre con 12 temblores