A man in an intoxicated state harassed Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday, leading her to press charges. The incident occurred in Mexico City when the man pushed through a welcoming crowd, putting his arm around her shoulder and touching her hip and chest while trying to kiss her neck.
According to reports, the man was heavily drunk and acted inappropriately in public. Sheinbaum appeared confused during the event and even allowed a photo to be taken with him. Later, upon reviewing video footage, she realized the seriousness of the assault.
“This person approached, completely intoxicated…it wasn’t until I saw the videos later that I realised what had really happened,” Sheinbaum said.
One of Sheinbaum’s main aides, Juan José Ramírez Mendoza, intervened to stop the man. The suspect was arrested overnight and is currently held by the Sex Crimes Investigation Unit.
The President’s office confirmed the individual has been charged with harassment, which covers indecent behavior, groping, and disrespectful conduct. The event sparked outrage on social media and intensified discussions about harassment and women's safety in public roles.
The incident highlighted Mexico’s persistent challenges regarding the protection and safety of women in the public sphere.
Sheinbaum called the event an “assault on all women.”
The harassment against President Sheinbaum by a drunken man drew national attention to ongoing issues of public safety and respect for women in Mexico.
Author’s summary: President Sheinbaum’s experience with harassment exposes ongoing concerns about the safety and respect of women in public life in Mexico.