Lawsuits filed against term extension law
Two national representatives of political parties announced the filing of lawsuits against the constitutional reform that extends Gov.-elect Jaime Bonilla’s term.
Accompanied by party lawmakers and members, National Action Party Chair Marko Cortés filed the constitutional lawsuit with the Mexican Supreme Court against the so-called Bonilla Law that would extend next Baja California Governor’s term until 2024.
“We came to ask this branch (of government) to make the constitution get respected,” Cortés said. “We came here with trust that (the Supreme Court) will say no to Jaime Bonilla and Morena (National Regeneration Movement Party in Spanish) to extend the term, of making laws for himself while violating Mexico’s Constitution and democracy.”
On Thursday, Gov. Francisco Vega enacted the law approved by the Assembly in late August to modify the state constitution in order to extend next governor’s term from two to five years.
“We trust the Supreme Court. That is why we are here,” Cortés added. “They (justices) will protect the rule of law and will not get subordinated to Morena’s interests and Jaime Bonilla’s attempt to extend his term.”
Leftwing Democratic Revolution Party leaders also filed a lawsuit before the Mexican Supreme Court Friday against the bill.
In a press release, the party said its representatives had pointed out Bonilla’s violations as governor-elect, his alleged illegal residence in the state and his criminal background.
Ángel Ávila Romero, one of the party leaders, recalled that Secretary of State Olga Sánchez and other election officials had criticized the law for putting democracy in jeopardy.
Former gubernatorial candidate Jaime Martínez said Bonilla’s attempt would set precedent to allow other states and even the president to increase office terms.
Martínez added that the law determines any election reform must be enacted three months before the election process begins.
In this case, lawmakers met and approved the bill after the election was held in June.