Sinaloa Governor Promises 'Firmness' Upon Resuming Office Amid Drug Trafficking Allegations

Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha Moya made his first public appearance in a video Friday, marking his return to office after nearly four months of leave. He pledged to continue governing with "firmness" despite allegations from the United States linking his administration to the Sinaloa Cartel.

In the video posted on X, Rocha Moya stated, "Today, I am back, I assume the responsibility to govern and work for Sinaloa and its people, as I have always done with the commitment to move our state forward. I am here and we will continue governing with firmness and dedication for our land, for Sinaloa."

The U.S. accusation, revealed on April 29, alleged that ten officials, including Rocha Moya, protected Sinaloa Cartel operations, particularly those of the Los Chapitos faction. The accusations claim these officials facilitated sensitive information and drug transport to the U.S. in exchange for millions in bribes. U.S. authorities stated the network aimed to introduce fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine into the U.S. with support from government structures in Sinaloa.

Rocha Moya, affiliated with the ruling Morena party, explained his 112-day absence was to "not interfere in any process." Since May 1, he has cooperated with Mexican authorities and the Attorney General's Office (FGR), which is investigating the ten individuals named by the U.S. Department of Justice. While Rocha Moya cited the FGR as stating "no evidence" links him to criminal conduct, Mexico's Ministry of the Interior (Segob) countered that the FGR "has not closed the investigation."

Morena issued a statement calling Rocha Moya's leave "personal" and distancing the party from his actions. The party emphasized its respect for the rule of law, due process, and the FGR's investigation outcomes, vowing to act responsibly and prioritize citizens' interests. Rocha Moya's ties to Morena stem from his relationship with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and institutional links with current President Claudia Sheinbaum.