Mexico Proposes Law Requiring Politicians to Renounce Dual Nationality

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has introduced a legislative initiative to Congress that mandates politicians to renounce any dual nationality they may hold. The proposal, submitted on August 27th, aims to address what is seen as a potential gap in the nation's laws regarding public office eligibility.

The initiative seeks to reform Articles 82, 116, and 122 of the Mexican Constitution. These articles outline the qualifications for presidential candidates, heads of government for Mexico City, and state governors. Current requirements include being a Mexican citizen by birth, having parents who are Mexican citizens, being at least 35 years old, and residing in Mexico for at least 20 years.

Sheinbaum's proposal specifically targets individuals with dual nationality. The reform to Article 82 states that to be President, a candidate must not hold or acquire another nationality. If they possess one, they must renounce it before registering their candidacy. Furthermore, anyone holding the presidential office cannot acquire or request another nationality or invoke foreign protection. The use of foreign passports or identity documents, exercising foreign political rights, or seeking foreign diplomatic protection would be considered a violation, punishable under Title Four of the Constitution.

This initiative extends to other high-ranking positions as well, as stipulated in Articles 116 and 132. The government also plans to propose modifications to the Nationality Law to establish a clear procedure for renouncing dual nationality with both Mexican and foreign authorities. "The objective is to guarantee that any Mexican person who wishes to be president, governor, head of government, has to be only Mexican, not have any other nationality," Sheinbaum clarified, noting that the current constitution is not explicit on this matter and has led to situations where governors held dual citizenship.

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The objective is to guarantee that any Mexican person who wishes to be president, governor, head of government, has to be only Mexican, not have any other nationality.