AMLO's Sixth Report: Mix of Achievements, Criticism

López Obrador’s sixth government report showcased MORENA’s achievements in social programs, public health, economic growth, and anti-corruption efforts. However, the opposition criticized his administration for rising violence, corruption, poverty, and legal uncertainty.

López Obrador asserted that since taking office, he has established the foundation for a new era, known as the Fourth Transformation. “Our primary actions included reforming the Constitution as much as possible and enacting laws to counteract the anti-popular, submissive, and corrupt policies that were previously imposed and legitimized.” He also highlighted Plan C, which consists of 20 proposed constitutional amendments targeting electoral law, judicial law, investment, and the dissolution of autonomous bodies.

López Obrador highlighted that, despite the impact of COVID-19, Mexico is projected to achieve a 1% annual growth rate by the end of his presidency. He noted that Mexico has advanced from 15th to 12th place in global economic rankings since the beginning of his term. Additionally, he emphasized that Mexico has become a key destination for foreign investment, surpassing countries like China and Canada to become the top trading partner of the United States.

López Obrador expressed confidence in Claudia Sheinbaum continuing MORENA’s principles and completing key projects. “She is an exceptional, experienced, and, most importantly, honest leader. She aligns with the foundational principles of our transformation movement and is a true advocate for equality, freedom, justice, democracy, and sovereignty.”

He tasked Sheinbaum with completing the Insurgente Train project by December, which stretches from Zinacantepec in the State of Mexico to Santa Fe in Mexico City. He also asked her to finish the park at the site of the former Ministry of Communications and Transport, which was damaged in the 2017 earthquake. 

While López Obrador received praise from his supporters, opposition parties, including Movimiento Ciudadano, argued that his administration has failed by worsening issues related to security, rights, corruption, and checks and balances. “Regardless of your perspective, the results closely resemble the neoliberal model: increased inequality, militarization, poverty, polarization, environmental damage, restricted rights, and even stigmatization of protest,” Clemente Castañeda, Coordinator, Movimiento Ciudadano, concluded.

Experts argue that López Obrador’s administration is among the most violent in Mexico’s history. Causa Común reports that in the 1H24, there were 2,185 documented atrocities impacting 4,959 victims, including massacres, torture, homicides, rapes, and forced displacements. As of Sept. 1, 2024, Mexico has recorded 328,564 missing persons since 1952, with 44% of these cases occurring during López Obrador’s presidency. Furthermore, Mexico continues to be one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, with 47 journalists killed during his term.