Mexico president to seek charges after being groped on street

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced her decision to press charges against a man who groped her during a public appearance in Mexico City. The incident, captured on mobile phone footage, occurred on Tuesday near the National Palace. In the video, a man is seen approaching Sheinbaum from behind, attempting to kiss her neck and place his hands on her body. Sheinbaum swiftly moved away, and a member of her security team intervened. The offender was subsequently arrested. At a news conference on Wednesday, Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of her decision, stating, ‘If I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women? If they do this to the president, what will happen to all women in our country?’ She recounted her personal experiences with harassment, both as a student and as a public figure, and highlighted that the suspect had allegedly harassed other women in the crowd. ‘A line must be drawn,’ she declared. The incident has sparked discussions about the pervasive issue of machismo in Mexican society and the broader challenges of gender-based violence. Despite Sheinbaum’s campaign promises to address femicide and violent crime, progress has been slow. The event also raises questions about presidential security and the safety of politicians, particularly in light of the recent murder of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. Sheinbaum has affirmed her commitment to maintaining close contact with her supporters, despite the risks. Her administration has made strides in combating fentanyl trafficking, a key concern for U.S. President Trump, but the fight against sexual harassment and gender-based violence remains a critical issue.