Incumbent Mexican Governor with Alleged Cartel Ties Refuses to Step Down Despite Protests
Reports suggest that intelligence agencies within the U.S. federal government are investigating Governor Rocha Moya for potential connections to the Sinaloa Cartel
In the heart of Culiacán, Sinaloa's capital, a palpable tension has gripped the city. The recent brutal killings of two young brothers, aged 9 and 12, along with their father during an attempted carjacking, have ignited a wave of public outrage. Thousands of residents have taken to the streets, demanding justice and calling for the resignation of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya.
The tragic incident has become a catalyst for broader grievances. Protesters have marched through Culiacán, decrying the pervasive cartel violence that has plagued the region. The city's residents have endured a series of violent events, including shootouts, arson, and bodies abandoned in public spaces, leading to widespread fear and frustration.
The demonstrators' anger is directed not solely at the criminal elements but also at the authorities' inaction. Chants of "¡Fuera Rocha!" ("Rocha out!") have echoed through the streets, reflecting a growing sentiment that Governor Rocha Moya has failed to address the escalating violence. Some protesters even breached the governor's offices, symbolizing their deep dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Governor Rocha Moya, who assumed office in 2021, has faced persistent allegations of ties to the Sinaloa Cartel. Critics have pointed to his birthplace, Badiraguato—the same town as notorious drug lord Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán—as a potential link to the cartel. However, Rocha Moya has consistently denied these allegations, emphasizing his academic background and commitment to public service. In a statement, he asserted, "Me quieren asociar con cosas que no son verdad. Yo soy un académico, no un narco" ("They want to associate me with things that are not true. I am an academic, not a narco").
Despite his denials, the accusations have persisted. Some reports have suggested that intelligence agencies within the U.S. federal government are investigating Rocha Moya for potential connections to the Sinaloa Cartel. These investigations reportedly focus on alleged interactions between the governor and cartel leaders, though no concrete evidence has been publicly presented.
The state's ongoing security challenges have compounded the controversy surrounding Rocha Moya's alleged cartel ties. Sinaloa has become a battleground for rival factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, leading to frequent violent confrontations.
In response to the escalating violence and public outcry, President Claudia Sheinbaum pledged federal support to investigate the recent murders and enhance security in Sinaloa. She expressed solidarity with the victims' families and emphasized the government's commitment to restoring peace in the region. However, she has refrained from directly addressing the calls for Governor Rocha Moya's resignation.
As the protests continue, the people of Sinaloa remain resolute in their demand for change. The tragic deaths of the young brothers and their father have become a rallying point, symbolizing the broader struggle against violence and impunity. The citizens' call for Governor Rocha Moya's resignation reflects a deep-seated desire for accountability and a safer future for their communities.