MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has filed a formal complaint after being physically assaulted in a public space near the National Palace — an incident that has triggered widespread debate over women’s safety and the gaps in Mexico’s harassment laws.
The assault, captured on video, shows a visibly intoxicated man approaching the president, placing his arm around her, touching her hip and chest, and attempting to kiss her neck as she walked between offices. Sheinbaum immediately pushed his hands away, and a staff member intervened, though her security team was not prominently seen at the moment.
Addressing the nation the following morning, President Sheinbaum emphasised that the episode reflected a deeper social crisis. “If this can happen to the president, what becomes of the young women of our country?” she asked, calling the act a stark reminder of how pervasive gender-based violence remains in Mexico. She stated firmly that “no man has the right to invade a woman’s personal space.”
The incident has reignited national conversation over legal protections for women. Sheinbaum pointed out that harassment is still not recognised as a criminal offence in all of Mexico’s 32 federal entities, urging legislators to prioritise reforms. Women’s rights groups have echoed her call, warning that fragmented laws leave millions vulnerable to abuse with limited avenues for justice.
Meanwhile, Sheinbaum criticised certain media outlets for “re-victimising” her by publishing images of the assault, urging journalists to uphold ethical responsibility when reporting such incidents.
Local authorities have arrested the perpetrator, who now faces charges that may include harassment and attempted sexual assault under regional laws.
Analysts say the president’s response has given new momentum to longstanding debates about public safety, misogyny and legal accountability. While Sheinbaum reiterated her commitment to remaining accessible to citizens, the incident has intensified public pressure on the state to reform harassment laws, strengthen enforcement and ensure safer public spaces for women across the country.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.