Tension in Sinaloa continues after marches demanding the resignation of Governor Rubén Rocha due to the violence unleashed by clashes between criminal groups. Rocha has stated his intention to remain in his position as state leader, expressing in a press conference on Monday, January 27: “Don't be anxious, there are election times to express your discontent or show support.”
The local Constitution of Sinaloa establishes a plan in case of the governor's absence. Article 58 states that the Secretary of Government will temporarily assume the position of governor for a maximum of thirty days, and if the absence extends, Congress will elect an Interim Governor by absolute majority of votes. In case of the absolute absence of the governor, Congress will act as an Electoral College and appoint an interim state leader.
Societal pressure has increased to demand the resignation not only of the governor but also of the mayor of Culiacán, Juan de Dios Gámez, due to the persistent wave of violence in the region. In the demonstrations, people of all ages marched from Lomita de Culiacán to the city hall to demand peace and concrete results from the authorities.
The protests have been accompanied by slogans such as ‘Out Rocha!’, ‘Resign, godson’, ‘We want peace’ and ‘Not with the children’. On a previous occasion, the protesters carried out violent and vandalistic acts against the State Government Palace. The mobilization also included the participation of family members of missing persons, who protested against the murders that occurred after more than 130 days of violence in Culiacán.
The first demonstration took place in response to the murder of a father and his two sons in Culiacán on Sunday, January 19. In that unfortunate event, all three were attacked by an armed group while trying to rob the vehicle they were traveling in. In response to the incident, teachers and parents of the children’s middle school decided to protest demanding a response from the governor.
Rubén Rocha assumed office as governor of Sinaloa in November 2021, and his term would end in October 2027.
