Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Has Decided to Press Charges Against a Man Who Was Seen Groping and Attempting to Kiss Her During a Public Walk in Mexico City.
This incident has sparked public and media discussions, drawing attention to gender safety and the rights of women in Mexico. The president’s decision to press charges against the man reflects her commitment to addressing these issues. The video of the incident, which has gone viral, shows the president being approached from behind by a man who puts his hands on her body and leans toward her face. Sheinbaum, who is visibly startled, turns toward the man and gently pushes his hands away while managing to maintain a stiff smile. A government official is seen quickly stepping in to separate the two as the president backs away. The man was then led off as onlookers watched in disbelief. Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada announced Tuesday night that the man had been arrested, according to The Associated Press. In the wake of the incident, Sheinbaum emphasized the need for greater awareness of gender issues and announced a plan to launch a campaign to educate men on respecting women’s rights, stating that this is an issue of dignity for women and of recognizing their rights.
Sheinbaum, who took office in October 2024 as Mexico’s first female president, underscored the importance of connecting directly with citizens, stating that the incident would not deter her from engaging directly with the people. Sheinbaum, 62, was previously Head of Government of Mexico City until 2023. Before the incident, she had been speaking with locals when the man approached her from behind and put his hands on her body before leaning toward her face. Sheinbaum later described the man as being ‘totally drunk.’ In a post on X, Sheinbaum said that she would ‘review the legislation so that this crime is punishable in all 32 [Mexican] states.’ She also pointed out that ‘if this can happen to the president, what can we expect for all the young women in our country?’ The incident has been widely discussed, and Sheinbaum has expressed her concern for the safety of all women in Mexico.