The nine ministers of Mexico's Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) have decided not to use the recently acquired Jeep Cherokee vehicles and will return them, following controversy over their cost. If they cannot be returned, they will be assigned to judges facing higher security risks. The move underscores a commitment to austerity in public resource use.
Mexico's Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) is under scrutiny for purchasing nine Jeep Cherokee vehicles, each priced between 1.07 and 1.777 million pesos. The acquisition aimed to replace an existing vehicle leasing contract, promising savings of one billion pesos, as endorsed by President Claudia Sheinbaum for security and protection reasons for the ministers.
Nevertheless, the nine ministers unanimously rejected the vehicles. The SCJN stated they will not use them and will return them. If return is not feasible, the vehicles will go to "judges facing higher risks, in full compliance with applicable regulations." This action aligns with efforts for efficient public resource management.
The controversy split opinions within Morena. Senator Gerardo Fernández Noroña supported the purchase, calling it an essential work tool rather than a luxury: "They can't just walk, take the Metro, hitch a ride, or use their own cars." Conversely, Chamber of Deputies coordinator Ricardo Monreal criticized it for contradicting the principles of the Fourth Transformation.
The SCJN reaffirmed its stance: "We reiterate our commitment to the efficient and responsible use of the people's resources, as well as our ongoing work to achieve real and true justice." A press conference is scheduled for Monday, January 26, at 8:30 a.m. at the court's facilities. It remains unclear if the previous leasing contract will continue for ministers' transportation.
