The Rise of Mexico's Military: AMLO's Ambitious Shift or a Shadow Over Security?

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In the heart of Mexico, a silent revolution is unfolding, one that is visible in every corner of the nation—from the bustling airports to the serene parks, from the rural landscapes to the urban streets. The Mexican military has grown to become the largest and most potent force it has ever been. Under the presidency of Andrés Manuel López Obrador, commonly known as AMLO, the armed forces have taken on over 100 functions that were once the domain of civilian governments and authorities.

A Process of Militarization: A New Era for Mexico

What is unfolding in Mexico is nothing short of a profound militarization of public life. The armed forces are no longer confined to security matters; they are now deeply involved in infrastructure projects, building trains and airports. With a staggering amount of public funds at their disposal, the military has become the driving force behind these ambitious ventures.

Public Safety vs. Infrastructure: A Delicate Balance

However, as a new government steps into power, a growing chorus of concern echoes through the nation. Are these grand infrastructure projects compromising public safety? The grim reality is that Mexico is experiencing its highest rate of murders in history. President López Obrador, known for his ambiguous stance on the issue, has faced criticism for his handling of the crisis.

The Maya Train: AMLO's Masterpiece or a Security Concern?

Enter the Maya Train, a 900-mile railway slicing through the Yucatan Peninsula, a project so bold that it could be AMLO's lasting legacy. A striking one-third of this colossal project is being constructed by the military, with over half of the Defense Ministry's 2024 budget allocated to its completion. Amidst court orders, cost overruns, and derailments, environmental concerns and construction integrity have also come under scrutiny.

The National Guard: A Civil or Military Entity?

The Mexican military is a triad of power, comprising the Army, the Navy, and the National Guard, a force established by AMLO in 2019 to replace the corrupt Federal Police. Initially greeted with optimism, the National Guard's transition to the Defense Ministry in 2022 has raised eyebrows, with the Supreme Court declaring the move unconstitutional. Yet, the National Guard continues to respond to the Defense Ministry, undermining the rule of law and constitutional principles.

Trust in the Military: A Double-Edged Sword

Despite these developments, a significant portion of the Mexican population—71%—expresses trust in the army and the Navy, surpassing that of the government or the police. AMLO's pragmatic leadership has led to a surge in the military's budget and influence, but this has not translated into improved effectiveness in fighting crime. The National Guard, intended to combat federal crimes and organized crime, has shown disconcertingly low rates of success, with disappearances soaring under the López Obrador administration.

A Political Marriage: The Risks to Democracy

The increasing involvement of the military in public security and infrastructure projects has created a political relationship that threatens the very fabric of Mexico's democracy. The armed forces, by their nature, possess the power to use state-sanctioned violence, and their expanding roles heighten the risks of human rights violations and arbitrary detentions.

AMLO's Legacy: A Future Bound by the Military

President López Obrador has taken a strategic step to ensure that his legacy endures, amending the constitution to compel future presidents to maintain the military's role in public security until 2028. This move will be challenging to overturn, leaving Mexico's next leader to grapple with the consequences of AMLO's creation.

In conclusion, Mexico's military has become a richer, mightier, and more deeply ingrained force in both private business and government than ever before. The nation stands at a crossroads, where the balance between security and infrastructure, between military might and civilian control, must be carefully navigated to preserve the integrity of its democracy.

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