Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Wednesday that she had lodged a formal complaint against a man who inappropriately touched and tried to kiss her while interacting with the public. The incident, captured in a viral video, was condemned by Sheinbaum during her routine press briefing, where she labeled it a criminal act. She expressed concern about the safety of women in Mexico, highlighting the prevalence of similar experiences among females in the country.
The video circulating online showcased a man making unwelcome advances towards Sheinbaum, including touching her and attempting to kiss her. Despite the lack of immediate security presence, a member of her staff intervened to prevent further escalation. The incident occurred as Sheinbaum was walking from Mexico’s National Palace to the Ministry of Education. The man involved was later apprehended by Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada.
Sheinbaum also criticized a Mexican newspaper, Reforma, for publishing images of the incident, deeming it a violation and demanding an apology from the publication. The federal Women’s Ministry, established under Sheinbaum’s leadership, issued a statement urging women to report violence while also requesting media outlets to refrain from sharing content that undermines women’s dignity.
Feminist activists have previously criticized Sheinbaum for perceived inaction in addressing violence against women, particularly regarding femicide cases. Mexico reported 821 femicides in 2024, with 501 recorded through September of the current year. Activists argue that these figures likely underestimate the actual extent of the issue. Ana Yeli Perez from the National Citizen Observatory on Femicide emphasized that the incident involving Sheinbaum highlights the ongoing challenges women face daily.
The incident unfolded on the same day Sheinbaum met with the widow of a mayor from Michoacán state who was publicly assassinated during a candlelight festival. The slain mayor, Carlos Manzo, had been critical of the government’s anti-crime efforts. His widow, Grecia Quiroz, has agreed to succeed him as mayor and was scheduled to be sworn in following the tragic event. Carlos Bautista, leader of the Independent Hat Movement to which Manzo belonged, disclosed that the new mayor would receive heightened security measures.
Law enforcement authorities have detained two suspects linked to Manzo’s murder and vowed to continue probing the case. The incident has stirred national outrage and brought attention to the prevalent challenges of violence against women in Mexico.