The Political Reform of Mexico City and the ‘crowdsourcing’ of a new constitution
A political transformation of Mexico City started last year, and it can be interpreted in several ways. Some people call it the result of the progressive inertia that for decades has been present in Mexico City. Some skeptics see this as a strategic move from the Mayor Miguel Angel Mancera to start a solid campaign towards the 2018 presidential race.
This political transformation includes: an official change of name from D.F. (Distrito Federal) to Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX) and also a new constitution that will imply a new distribution of power and responsibilities.
In spite of the progressive history of the city (decriminalization of abortion in 2007, the same-sex marriage law in 2009, as examples), no one saw this coming, especially with the feeling across the country of the possible return of authoritarianism… the administration was “crowdsourcing” the new constitution.
The truth is the government of Mexico City is changing: 16 “Delegaciones” will be transformed in “Alcaldias” (Town Halls) and the government of the city won’t be as centralized, allowing each local town hall to define the usage of budget and facilitate decision making.
Accountability
In the past, the so-called “Jefe Delgacional” (elected representative chief of each delegation) always used to blame everything on the central city government. Now, things are going to be different, their power and responsibility will increase and this may result in a more dynamic, agile, and reactive government - or not. One could argue that without the proper mechanisms, this could create a less articulated city.
What’s special about of this Constitution?
- The first draft was generated by a group of 28 “notable figures” appointed by Mancera.
- The 28 appointed figures included over 400,000 contributions from citizens via platforms such as Change.org.
- The final draft will be sent to a special congress made up of 100 seats that will modify, correct and amend it to produce the final version of the constitution. The deadline is March 31st, 2016.
Only then will we know how inclusive and progressive is the new constitution. It will also take some time to notice in practice the difference in the city’s operations.
APA Citation:
Author: Diego Rabasa. The Guardian. (June 2nd,2016). https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/jun/02/mexico-city-crowdsourcing-new-constitution-change-mayor-mancera-president
Author E. Martinez. TKM. Photo (January 7th, 2016) http://www.mundotkm.com/mx/viajes/104349/la-ciudad-de-mexico-el-principal-destino-turistico-del-pais-sectur