Morena prepares Rocha's return in Sinaloa, PAN warns; accuses political and legal shielding amid U.S. allegations

Mexico's National Action Party (PAN) has accused the federal government of orchestrating the political, legal, and media conditions for the return of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya to Sinaloa. PAN national president Jorge Romero Herrera claims the state is "infiltrated by organized crime" and that Rocha's reappearance, after over two months of public absence, was not due to judicial resolution but a narrative of protection from the ruling party, Morena.

"Rocha did not reappear because he proved his innocence. He reappeared emboldened, defiant, and feeling protected," Romero Herrera stated. He asserted that Morena is preparing for Rocha to resume leadership of what the PAN calls a "narco-state" in Sinaloa. The party emphasized that Rocha Moya's temporary leave does not preclude his return, as he legally retains the possibility to reclaim his position unless a resolution prevents it.

The PAN is not seeking condemnation without trial but demands "that the procedure be investigated and transparent, and that Mexican institutions not be used to manufacture impunity." Romero Herrera highlighted serious unresolved issues, including U.S. judicial accusations, alleged criminal support during the 2021 election, the potential transfer of state government areas to criminal operators, irregularities in the investigation of Héctor Melesio Cuén's murder, and accusations of illicit funds and contracts linked to Rocha's family.

PAN federal deputy and spokesperson Ernesto Sánchez criticized Morena's approach, suggesting they believe "time heals all wounds." He argued that disappearing for a few months and returning as if accusations never existed is insufficient. "But reality is not erased by decree, nor is impunity turned into innocence by propaganda," Sánchez stated. He concluded that if Rocha returns without the accusations being clarified, it would demonstrate that in the current administration, "the best political shield is not truth, but belonging to the right group." The party insists that Mexicans deserve governments that investigate, not recycle questioned officials.