During a public walk in the capital of Mexico, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum was subjected to a sexual harassment incident while engaging with citizens on Tuesday. A man approached her during a walk through the city center, attempting to kiss her on the neck and touching her body. Sheinbaum gently pushed him away, with one of her aides intervening. The incident, which was captured on video and circulated on social media, has sparked widespread discussion about the safety of public figures and the prevalence of sexual harassment in Mexico.
Sheinbaum, known for her informal and approachable leadership style, often interacts directly with citizens during public engagements. She frequently stops for selfies, handshakes, and brief exchanges to maintain a connection with the Mexican people. However, the incident highlighted the security risks she faces during these appearances, as her bodyguards were not immediately visible in the video, and several seconds passed before any of her aides stepped in to stop the man.
Sheinbaum filed a formal criminal complaint over the incident, stating that she aims to set an example for other women and will launch a national campaign against sexual harassment. She also announced plans to review state laws to strengthen legal protections for women across the country. Her response to the incident demonstrates her commitment to addressing issues of sexual harassment and gender-based violence in Mexico.
The incident occurred just days after the murder of Uruapan city Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodriguez in the western state of Michoacan. The attacker shot the official seven times at point-blank range before being killed by security forces. In the months leading up to his death, the official had publicly pleaded with Sheinbaum for help confronting powerful criminal groups in his region. This event underscores the ongoing challenges Mexico faces with organized crime and drug trafficking, which have strained relations with its northern neighbor.
Sheinbaum recently rejected US President Donald Trump’s offer to send troops to fight the cartels, stating that her country welcomes cooperation but will not accept subordination. She emphasized that if Washington truly wants to help, it should stop the flow of American weapons that arm the criminal groups driving the violence. The incident has also brought attention to the broader issue of sexual harassment in Mexico, highlighting the need for stronger legal safeguards and a cultural shift in how such behavior is perceived and addressed.
As the country grapples with these issues, Sheinbaum’s actions and statements reflect a determination to tackle both the security challenges posed by organized crime and the societal issues surrounding sexual harassment. Her responses to these incidents underscore the complex political and social landscape in Mexico, where the balance between national security and human rights is a constant concern.