FGR in Crisis: Resignations, Dismissals, and Illness Grip Attorney General's Office

Mexico's Attorney General's Office (FGR) is in the throes of a significant crisis, marked by the recent resignations and dismissals of two high-ranking prosecutors. The sudden departure of Ulises Lara, the Prosecutor for Relevant Affairs and Attorney General Ernestina Godoy's most trusted aide, served as the first indication of the turmoil. This was followed by the swift dismissal of Oscar Langlet, the prosecutor for Crimes Committed by Public Servants, making the internal crisis public and evident.

Internal FGR sources indicate that beyond these personnel changes, Attorney General Godoy's health is also a concern. She has reportedly taken intermittent absences from her duties due to a lung condition linked to her smoking habit. While not a new ailment, sources claim Godoy has experienced several severe episodes in recent weeks, including fainting spells and falling asleep due to oxygen deprivation, necessitating constant use of external oxygen equipment.

The reasons behind Lara's departure, despite his close relationship with Godoy, remain officially unexplained, beyond the common political phrase "personal reasons." This has fueled various speculations. Some suggest his exit is linked to the handling of the "Mayo" Zambada case, specifically the incorrect information released by the FGR regarding the pilot who transported the Sinaloa cartel leader to the United States. Others point to corruption allegations against Lara, including claims of extorting the Lozoya family and associates of businessman Alonso Ancira.

Further fueling the speculation, journalist Raymundo Rivapalacio reported that U.S. intelligence sources identified Lara as an informant for U.S. intelligence services. These sources also reportedly link him to extortion rings and "huachicolero" (fuel theft) businessmen, to whom he allegedly sold favors. The former prosecutor is also accused of extorting or demanding money from the Lozoya family and individuals close to businessman Alonso Ancira.

Multiple versions of Lara's exit converge on one point: the order for his separation from the post came directly and abruptly from the National Palace. It is alleged that President López Obrador asked Attorney General Godoy, who is supposedly autonomous, to dismiss Lara, her right-hand man not only at the current FGR but also at the Mexico City Attorney General's Office. Godoy had appointed Lara as her successor there when she moved to a government legal advisory role in January 2024, despite Lara not yet holding a law degree, a legal requirement for the capital's prosecutor position.