President Sheinbaum to Press Charges Following Assault at Event

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced her intention to press charges against a man who groped her during a public appearance on October 31, 2023. This incident occurred as she greeted supporters near the National Palace in Mexico City, where a man approached her from behind, attempted to kiss her neck, and touched her inappropriately. Sheinbaum quickly stepped away, visibly shaken, as her security personnel intervened and detained the suspect.

Setting an Example Against Gender-Based Violence

During a news conference on November 1, 2023, Sheinbaum stated that filing a formal complaint is essential to set a precedent. “If I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women?” she asked, highlighting the broader implications of the assault. She emphasized that if such actions can happen to the president, they can happen to anyone. The president revealed that the man had allegedly harassed other women at the event, underscoring the urgent need to combat this behavior.

Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, has been vocal about addressing gender violence since taking office. Yet, advocacy groups have criticized her administration for insufficient progress in addressing the issue. The assault has reignited discussions about the pervasive machismo culture in Mexico, where women often face harassment with little consequence for perpetrators. Activists noted that approximately 98% of femicides in the country go unpunished, reflecting a systemic failure to protect women’s rights.

Public Safety and Security Concerns

The incident has also sparked renewed debate over presidential security protocols. Sheinbaum has maintained an open-access style, frequently interacting with the public at events, a practice she intends to continue despite the risks. “I will continue interacting with the people,” she affirmed, demonstrating her commitment to remaining accessible.

This assault follows the recent murder of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in Michoacán, during local Day of the Dead festivities. Manzo had publicly urged Sheinbaum to enhance federal support for combating drug cartels, highlighting the ongoing violence against politicians in Mexico. The country witnessed the killings of around 35 candidates during the 2024 general election, marking it as one of the most dangerous electoral periods in recent history.

In response to the growing violence, Sheinbaum has pledged to improve public safety and strengthen efforts against fentanyl trafficking, a critical issue in her administration’s relationship with the United States. As she navigates these challenges, the president’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence remains a focal point of her agenda.