Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Wednesday that she had lodged a legal complaint against a man who inappropriately touched and attempted to kiss her while she interacted with the public. The incident, captured in a viral video, was labeled as a crime by Sheinbaum during her routine morning press briefing. She emphasized that such actions are not uncommon for women in Mexico and expressed concerns about the safety of women in the country.
The video of the incident quickly spread online, shedding light on the challenges women face in Mexico due to entrenched machismo and gender-related violence. Questions arose regarding Sheinbaum’s security arrangements, as she, like her predecessor, maintains a low-profile security presence and actively engages with the public.
Despite the unsettling encounter, Sheinbaum stated her intention to continue her approach of being accessible to the people. The incident occurred as she was walking from Mexico’s National Palace to the Ministry of Education. The footage depicted a man putting his arm around Sheinbaum, touching her inappropriately, and attempting to kiss her before being intervened by a staff member. Notably, her security team was not in close proximity at the time.
The man involved was subsequently apprehended, as confirmed by Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada. Sheinbaum also criticized a local newspaper for publishing images of the incident, considering it a violation and demanding an apology. The Women’s Ministry, established under Sheinbaum’s leadership, urged women to report violence against them while cautioning media outlets against disseminating demeaning content.
Activists have previously criticized Sheinbaum for inadequate efforts in combating violence against women, citing insufficient investigations into femicides. Mexico recorded 821 femicides in 2024, with 501 cases documented by September of the current year, though many believe the actual numbers are higher.
The incident involving Sheinbaum occurred on the same day she met with the widow of a slain mayor in Michoacán state, who was publicly assassinated during a festival. Grecia Quiroz, the widow, has agreed to take on her late husband’s role and was scheduled to be sworn in. The assassination sparked nationwide outrage and protests, highlighting the ongoing challenge of organized crime in the region.
In response to the mayor’s assassination, authorities have made arrests and pledged to continue the investigation. The new mayor is expected to receive heightened security measures to ensure her safety in the volatile environment.