MEXICO CITY (FN) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday she will pursue legal action against a man who groped her during a public walk near the National Palace, an incident that has ignited national debate over gender-based violence and public safety.
The assault occurred Tuesday afternoon when a man approached Sheinbaum, placed his arm around her shoulder, and touched her chest and hip while attempting to kiss her. The encounter was captured on video and widely circulated across social media platforms.
Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, confirmed the incident during her daily press briefing and said she had filed a formal complaint. She described the act as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that her decision to seek charges was intended to set a precedent for women across the country.
“If this can happen to the president, imagine what ordinary women face every day,” Sheinbaum said. She called on the Women’s Ministry to review the case and urged lawmakers to consider criminalizing street harassment nationwide.
The suspect, whose identity has not been officially released, was reportedly intoxicated and detained shortly after the incident. Authorities have not confirmed whether formal charges have been filed.
The episode has prompted widespread condemnation from civil society groups, political leaders, and women’s rights advocates. “This is not just about the president — it’s about every woman who’s been touched without consent,” said María Elena Ríos, a saxophonist and activist who survived an acid attack in 2019.
Social media erupted with support, with hashtags such as #ConEllaEstoy (“I stand with her”) and #NoEsNormal (“It’s not normal”) trending across Mexico. “Sheinbaum’s courage to speak out sends a powerful message,” wrote user @AnaJusticiaMX on X. “We’re tired of pretending this behavior is harmless.”
Criticism also emerged over the president’s security detail, with commentators questioning how the man was able to approach her so closely. “This should never have happened — not to her, not to anyone,” said journalist Gabriela Warkentin. “It’s a failure of both security and culture.”
Mexico has long grappled with high rates of gender violence, including femicide and street harassment. Activists say the incident underscores the urgency of legislative and cultural shifts to protect women in both private and public spheres.
The Women’s Ministry said it is reviewing the legal framework surrounding harassment and will work with federal prosecutors to determine appropriate charges. Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for future enforcement.
Sheinbaum’s response marks a pivotal moment in Mexico’s political landscape, where female leaders have often faced gendered scrutiny. Her decision to speak out is being hailed as a turning point in the national conversation on women’s safety.
As investigations continue, the president has vowed to remain visible and engaged with the public, stating that fear will not dictate her leadership. “We must confront this together,” she said.
