Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has filed charges against a man who, according to her, was drunk and harassed her during a public event on Tuesday. She described the incident as “an assault on all women.”
“An assault on all women.” — Claudia Sheinbaum
The man was detained overnight, stated Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada, and is now being held at the Sex Crimes Investigation Unit. The harassment occurred when the suspect forced his way through a crowd greeting Sheinbaum in Mexico City’s Zócalo area and appeared to grope her, as shown in viral video footage.
The video shows the man approaching Sheinbaum, touching her chest, and attempting to kiss her. The confrontation was stopped when one of her senior aides, Juan José Ramírez Mendoza, intervened.
The incident has provoked widespread outrage and reignited public debate about harassment and women’s safety in political and public spaces. Police in Mexico City have reported that the same individual is believed to have harassed two other women earlier that day.
CNN is still investigating whether the detained man has legal representation or has provided a statement. Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, confirmed on Wednesday that she decided to pursue legal action, emphasizing the importance of accountability in such cases.
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s decision to pursue legal action after being assaulted underscores her commitment to women’s safety and equality in public life.