Mexican Senator Accused of Drug Trafficking by U.S. Seeks Temporary Leave

Senator Enrique Inzunza of Mexico's ruling Morena party announced he is seeking a temporary leave from the Senate. This move comes as the U.S. Department of Justice has formally accused him of drug trafficking offenses.

Inzunza stated on social media that his substitute would attend the upcoming sessions, justifying his request due to what he termed a "media onslaught" from "right-wing media." He maintains his innocence, asserting that the accusations are "mendacious" and entirely unfounded. Inzunza, who represents Sinaloa, a state heavily impacted by cartel activity, emphasized his commitment to his public duties.

His decision to step aside temporarily aligns with actions taken by other officials in Sinaloa. The state's governor, Rubén Rocha Moya, and the mayor of the capital city, Culiacán, Juan de Dios Gámez, have also recently requested temporary leaves amid similar U.S. allegations. Inzunza's substitute for these sessions will be Omar López Campos, who currently serves as Secretary of Welfare and Sustainable Development in the Sinaloa state government.

The U.S. has requested the urgent detention of ten Sinaloa officials, including Inzunza. However, the Mexican government has rejected these requests, stating that no evidence has been presented to justify the urgency. The Attorney General's Office (FGR) has summoned both Governor Rocha Moya and Senator Inzunza to testify as witnesses, both of whom have affirmed their commitment to Mexican institutions while maintaining their innocence. This situation has heightened tensions between Mexico City and Washington, particularly after two accused officials surrendered to U.S. authorities, fueling speculation about potential cooperation agreements.

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