In the heart of Oaxaca, a remote Mixtec-speaking village shaped the early life of Hugo Aguilar Ortiz, whose childhood revolved around herding goats. Growing up in a community steeped in the traditions and language of Tu’un Savi, Ortiz never imagined his life would steer toward the complexities of law. “I thought the world ended at the mountains,” he reflected, sharing his disbelief at the thought of becoming a lawyer.
Now, at 52, Aguilar Ortiz’s remarkable journey has culminated in his recent election as chief justice of Mexico’s Supreme Court—a historic first in the country’s judicial landscape. His election comes in the wake of a significant restructuring initiated by the leftist Morena party, which is bringing judicial elections directly to the citizens in a move to replace a long-standing appointive system.
The past year has seen heated debates surrounding this transformation, with critics accusing the Morena party of undermining vital checks on power held by President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration. Meanwhile, proponents argue that these reforms are essential to eliminate corruption and ensure that traditionally marginalized voices gain representation within the judiciary.
"Things can change now that we have Hugo there," remarked Alejandro Marreros Lobato, a Nahua human rights advocate who has previously collaborated with Aguilar Ortiz in a legal fight against a Canadian mining project threatening his community. "It makes me feel that we can finally start talking about justice."
Aguilar Ortiz’s rise stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the possible changes within Mexico's legal and political framework. His story resonates with those advocating for a more inclusive approach to justice, especially for the indigenous populations historically sidelined in the country’s political discourse. As he steps into this pivotal role, many are looking towards him for significant contributions to a fairer judicial system where every voice matters.
