Mexico's Supreme Court Holds Historic Session in Chiapas

On February 26, 2026, Mexico's Supreme Court convened its first session outside of Mexico City in Tenejapa, a remote mountain town in the southern state of Chiapas. This initiative is part of a broader effort to bring the country's highest court closer to marginalized communities. Approximately 2,000 attendees, including Indigenous leaders and community members, gathered under a tent in the central square to witness the court's deliberations. Chief Justice Hugo Aguilar, an Indigenous lawyer from Oaxaca, emphasized the importance of transparency in judicial processes, stating, “Now, the goal is that you see how we deliberate, that you know what we say, how we consider and make a decision.”

Mexico’s Supreme Court holds its first session outside Mexico City, in ChiapasIn a historic first, the Supreme Court holds a session in a Chiapas pueblo

The choice of Tenejapa is significant, as Chiapas is home to the third largest Indigenous population in Mexico, representing 12 of the country's 68 Indigenous groups. The Supreme Court's decision to hold sessions in such areas aims to foster a more inclusive legal culture. During the session, the court addressed the long-standing demands for self-rule from the Tzotzil community of La Candelaria, which has sought greater autonomy for years. The court ruled that the Chiapas state Congress must create or adapt the legal framework necessary for the community's self-governance and ensure direct budget delivery to the village.

In a historic first, the Supreme Court holds a session in a Chiapas pueblo

While the event was celebrated by many attendees, it has not been without criticism. The court's recent transition to being popularly elected has raised concerns about politicization. Critics argue that the low voter turnout and the dominance of candidates affiliated with the governing party undermine the court's independence. Despite these concerns, the atmosphere in Tenejapa was one of gratitude, with community members expressing appreciation for the court's presence and its acknowledgment of their rights.

Mexico’s Supreme Court holds its first session outside Mexico City, in Chiapas

Chief Justice Hugo Aguilar highlighted the court's commitment to connecting with the people, stating, “Often in our communities we only feel the effects of a decision taken far away.” María de la Cruz Velasco, president of a foundation aiding victims of femicide, expressed her happiness about the court's outreach, emphasizing the necessity of listening to the people.

Mexico’s Supreme Court holds its first session outside Mexico City, in Chiapas

Some media outlets have described the event as a mere photo opportunity, citing issues such as “half-baked translations” and a lack of genuine engagement. However, the overall sentiment among attendees was one of appreciation for the court's efforts to reach out to Indigenous communities.

In a historic first, the Supreme Court holds a session in a Chiapas pueblo

The Supreme Court's initiative to hold sessions in remote areas is expected to continue, aiming to enhance accessibility and responsiveness in the Mexican judicial system. The implications of this outreach may influence future legal reforms and the relationship between the court and Indigenous populations across the country.

Mexico’s Supreme Court holds its first session outside Mexico City, in Chiapas