Further action needed to reinforce Mexico rule of law

Significance

The executive's main response to the credibility crisis triggered by the Iguala disappearances in September, its ten-point rule of law plan unveiled on November 28, coupled with several self-inflicted errors over the past months, have failed to dispel doubts about the president's crisis management skills. Most of the proposed measures require legislative discussion, which must await Congress's return from its recess in February.

Impacts

• The results of the criminal prosecutions and forensic tests concerning the Iguala disappearances are central to the recovery of credibility.
• The capacity of Pena Nieto to rally political forces around key state initiatives may continue to wither in the coming months.
• Foreign visits will not help the administration to recover the prestige lost in recent months.