Mexico to prohibit presidents from holding dual citizenship - reuters.com

Mexico’s Congress is moving forward with a constitutional amendment that would require any candidate for the presidency to renounce any foreign citizenship they hold. The proposal, which would bar individuals with dual nationality from occupying the nation’s highest office, is being fast‑tracked through the legislative process.

The amendment was introduced by the ruling party and has already passed the lower house of Congress. It now awaits final approval in the Senate before it can be presented to the public for a referendum, as required for changes to the constitution. Lawmakers say the measure is intended to ensure that the president’s allegiance is solely to Mexico.

Critics argue that the reform infringes on political rights and could be used to disqualify opposition figures who hold dual citizenship. Human‑rights groups and some opposition parties contend that the requirement is unnecessary and may limit the pool of qualified candidates.

Supporters of the amendment maintain that a single‑nationality president would avoid potential conflicts of interest and reinforce national sovereignty. They point to examples in other countries where similar restrictions are in place.

If adopted, the new rule would become part of Mexico’s constitutional framework, obliging future presidential hopefuls to formally renounce any foreign passports before taking office. The debate continues as the Senate deliberates the proposal and the public prepares for a possible referendum.