President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, denounces sexual harassment during walk in the capital Por Maria
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The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, was a victim of sexual harassment on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, while walking through the historic center of Mexico City. The incident occurred during an interaction with supporters, on the way to a public event near the National Palace. A man, identified as Uriel Rivera Martínez, approached her from behind, touched the president’s waist and chest and tried to kiss her on the neck. He was detained hours later by authorities.
Sheinbaum announced, at a press conference the following day, that he had filed a formal complaint against the attacker. The complaint was registered with the Public Ministry of Mexico City, where sexual harassment is a crime, punishable by up to four years in prison. The president highlighted the importance of combating gender-based violence, stating that the case reflects a reality faced by many women in the country.
- The attacker was arrested at 9pm on Tuesday, according to the National Arrest Registry.
- Images of the incident, captured by witnesses, went viral on social media.
- Sheinbaum walked without security guards nearby, which led to criticism of his protection.
Official reaction
The Women’s Secretariat, led by Citlalli Hernández, repudiated what happened. The minister classified the act as a reflection of a sexist culture that normalizes the invasion of women’s personal space.
The president reinforced that the case is not isolated. She highlighted that many Mexican women face similar situations daily, which motivated herdecision to report.
Proposed legislation
Sheinbaum announced his intention to review Mexican state laws. The goal is to criminalize sexual harassment across the country.
In Mexico City, the crime is covered by Article 179 of the Penal Code, with sentences of one to three years. However, legislation varies among the country’s 32 states.
The president plans to work with Hernández to unify the standards. A national campaign against harassment was also promised.
Contexto da violência de gênero
Cerca de 70% das mulheres mexicanas acima de 15 anos jásuffered some type of violence, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi).
Sexual harassment, including groping and unwanted advances, affects 15.5% of women.
Underreporting is a serious problem, with more than 90% of cases unreported.
Sheinbaum’s report may encourage other women to report similar crimes.
Presidential security debate
The incident raised questions about Sheinbaum’s safety. The absence of nearby security guards was criticized by experts.
The president defended her closeness to the people. She stated that she will maintain direct contact with the population, despite what happened.
The Citizen Security Secretariat confirmed Rivera’s arrest. He is also investigated for harassing other women on the same day.
The case generated outrage among politicians from the Morena party. They condemned the sexist culture and expressed support for the president.
Social impact of the case
Sheinbaum reported that he only realized the severity of the harassment when he saw the video. “I went through this when I was young, like many women,” she said.
The case reignited debates about gender-based violence in Mexico. Actions such as the Sinal Vermelho campaign, which allows complaints in pharmacies, were highlighted.
Human rights organizations praised thepresident’s stance. Public reporting can strengthen policies to protect women.
The episode also opened space for international discussions. Countries like Brazil, with high rates of gender-based violence, can be inspired by the proposed measures.
Prevention measures
The Women’s Secretariat plans to intensify educational campaigns.
Dial 180, a service to help victims of violence, was reinforced in Mexico.
- Reports can be made at specialized police stations.
- Protective measures are analyzed by the Court within 48 hours.
- Shelters and assistance centers are available for victims.
