Mexico's Judicial Elections: Low Turnout, Ballot Theft, and Protests

Low Voter Turnout and Irregularities Mark Mexico's Judicial Elections Mexico's recent judicial elections were marked by exceptionally low voter turnout and numerous irregularities, according to a report by Azteca Noticias. The report, which included footage from polling stations across the country, showed mostly empty voting locations. In Chiapas, for example, over 55,000 ballots were reported stolen and later returned pre-marked. "They stole the ballots, imagine that," said a commentator in the Azteca Noticias report, "then they returned them already marked." This points to a potential for widespread electoral fraud. Protests erupted in several states, including Colima and Sinaloa, with citizens expressing their discontent over the judicial reform and the lack of participation. In one particularly poignant moment, the report showed an elderly woman who died while waiting to vote. The lack of participation was striking, with only a handful of people seen at many polling stations. This contrasts sharply with the millions registered to vote. In Durango, two people were detained for alleged vote buying but released due to insufficient evidence. Even police in Tabasco refused to participate in election duties, citing lack of pay. The overall picture painted by Azteca Noticias is one of significant irregularities and a profound lack of public trust in the electoral process. The low turnout and the various incidents raise serious questions about the legitimacy of the election results. The lack of participation highlights a growing concern about the disconnect between the government and the Mexican people.