A Mexican state governor, who is wanted by the United States for alleged conspiracy to smuggle drugs, has requested a temporary leave of absence that may be indefinite, just days after his controversial return to office.
“Sinaloa, the nation, and the transformation movement are paramount,” Governor Ruben Rocha Moya said in a post on X, attaching a document requesting the state congress to authorize a temporary leave of absence of indefinite duration, exceeding 30 days.
A day earlier, he announced on X that he was resuming his role as state leader of Sinaloa. The 77‑year‑old had previously stepped aside in May to address an investigation by Mexican prosecutors.
In April, U.S. prosecutors alleged that Rocha and nine other current or former members of the ruling Morena Party conspired with a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel to traffic narcotics into the United States in exchange for bribes and political support, marking the first time U.S. authorities have publicly charged a sitting Mexican politician.
Rocha has consistently denied the allegations, suggesting that the accusations are intended to undermine the left‑leaning Morena party.
Rocha’s return irks leadership
Rocha’s announcement was poorly received by the government and his own Morena Party. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated, “No personal interest can ever be placed above the interest of the people and the nation.”
“Power without principles becomes arrogance; power without limits becomes abuse; and power that forgets the people ultimately confronts history,” she added, emphasizing that Mexico deserves public servants who are not motivated by personal ambition.
Rocha was regarded as an ally of Sheinbaum and is closely aligned with her mentor, former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
What we know about US drug charges against Mexico officials
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Edited by: Natalie Muller
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