Controversial Ex-Lawyer of El Chapo Elected as Judge in Landmark Judicial Elections

In a groundbreaking event for Mexico's legal system, Silvia Delgado, who notably defended Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, has been elected as a local criminal judge in Ciudad Juárez following the nation’s first judicial election. The election, held on June 1, drew attention and criticism, as Delgado faced accusations of having ties to organized crime—claims she vehemently denied, arguing that her role as El Chapo’s lawyer did not constitute a conflict of interest.

Despite controversies surrounding her candidacy, election results confirmed her victory on Tuesday, although she opted to wait for official confirmation before making any statements. Delgado's election takes place against the backdrop of a significant judicial reform initiated by the Morena party, aimed at promoting greater voter democracy within the judiciary. In contrast, critics argue this reform compromises judicial independence, and the low turnout rate of just 13% suggests minimal public support for the initiative. Nonetheless, President Claudia Sheinbaum has touted the elections as a milestone for democratic governance in judicial matters.