Governor of Sinaloa Steps Down Indefinitely

Just over a day after resuming his role as governor of Sinaloa, Ruben Rocha Moya, who faces drug trafficking accusations, announced he would be stepping down indefinitely. This decision followed significant conflict within Mexico’s ruling party, MORENA. It appears he had alienated many members, including President Claudia Sheinbaum and fellow governors, who accused him of prioritizing his own interests over those of the party.

On Saturday evening, Rocha Moya revealed his indefinite leave from the governorship, emphasizing that the party’s welfare takes precedence. Interestingly, he made this announcement just a bit more than 24 hours after returning from a three-month hiatus, amid ongoing considerations regarding his status as a fugitive in the eyes of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Reports indicate that back in April, the U.S. DOJ had indicted Rocha Moya and nine associates for conspiracy related to drug trafficking and illegal weapons. They were accused of abusing their political roles to assist the Sinaloa Cartel. This situation has created a tense atmosphere between the U.S. and Mexico. At one point, Sheinbaum publicly defended Rocha Moya, challenging the legitimacy of the indictment and suggesting the U.S. right was attempting to damage MORENA’s reputation.

The controversy resurfaced when Rocha Moya announced his return to the governorship, claiming cooperation with Mexican authorities to clear his name. His return sparked considerable backlash. Mexico’s Secretary of the Interior, Rosa Isela Rodriguez, quickly pointed out that he acted unilaterally, failing to consult either the government or party leadership.

In rapid succession, the MORENA party and the sitting governors distanced themselves from him, asserting that no individual was above the party’s interests. Then, on Saturday morning, Sheinbaum herself issued a statement of disavowal, reinforcing the party line against Rocha Moya.