Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced her intention to press charges against a man who touched her inappropriately during a public event near the National Palace in Mexico City. The shocking incident was captured on mobile phone footage showing the president interacting with supporters before a man suddenly approached her from behind, attempting to kiss her on the neck and grope her.
Sheinbaum immediately pulled away as her security team intervened. The man was swiftly arrested following the assault. Speaking at a press conference the next day, the president stated that she chose to take legal action to set an example and defend the dignity of women across Mexico.
“My view is, if I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women? If they do this to the president, what will happen to all women in our country?” she said, emphasizing her decision as both a personal and collective stand against gender violence. Sheinbaum revealed that the suspect had allegedly harassed other women at the scene, underscoring the need to “draw a line” against such behavior.
The incident has reignited discussions about gender-based harassment and the pervasive culture of machismo in Mexican society. Women’s rights groups have condemned the assault, pointing to it as evidence of how deep-rooted sexism remains, even at the highest levels of public office.
Gender-based violence continues to be one of Mexico’s most pressing issues, with estimates suggesting that 98 percent of femicides go unpunished. Despite Sheinbaum’s promises during her campaign to improve safety for women, activists argue that progress has been slow since she took office.
The attack also comes amid growing concerns about the security of public officials. The president’s commitment to maintaining close contact with citizens, a tradition continued from her predecessor, has occasionally raised safety concerns for her team. However, Sheinbaum reaffirmed that she will not change her approach, insisting that connecting directly with citizens remains vital.
Her announcement follows the recent killing of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo during local Day of the Dead celebrations, an incident that once again underscored the dangers facing politicians in Mexico.
