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Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha Moya Requests Indefinite Leave of Absence Following U.S. Drug Trafficking Charges

Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha Moya requested an indefinite leave of absence from his position on Saturday, just one day after announcing his return to office. The 77-year-old governor, who has served in the role since 2021, faced U.S. federal charges in April for allegedly colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel to distribute narcotics to the United States. Rocha Moya insisted he committed no crime and returned to office with a clear conscience, claiming the U.S. accusations were fabrications. However, the move was met with criticism from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who noted that personal interests should not supersede the interests of the nation. The U.S. Justice Department's charges against Rocha Moya and nine other officials represent the first time the U.S. has publicly charged a sitting Mexican politician. The situation has strained bilateral relations, as Mexico argues that Washington has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the extradition of Rocha Moya, who faces a potential life sentence if convicted.

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