In an international context, Jorge Romero, leader of the PAN, commented on the alleged links between organized crime and the government in Mexico, mentioned by the newly inaugurated president in the United States. Romero also expressed concern over the assistance that the Mexican government allegedly wants to provide to 'El Mayo' Zambada, ignoring other Mexicans facing death sentences.
Regarding the letter sent by 'El Mayo' Zambada to the Mexican government requesting his extradition, Romero interpreted it as a threatening ultimatum. According to him, the letter indicates that if Zambada is not returned to Mexico, he will reveal compromising information. The letter was submitted to the General Consulate of Mexico in New York and published by the newspaper Reforma.
Juan Pablo Penilla, lawyer for 'El Mayo' Zambada, has garnered attention for his political connections. It has been mentioned that he was linked with Morena and advised President Sheinbaum in her electoral campaign in 2024. Penilla has also been named an advisor in the Tamaulipas government in 2023 and received recognition as "Ambassador of Peace" by the PAN in 2023. A law graduate from the Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, he is currently the legal advisor to 'El Mayo' Zambada in a trial in the United States.
In response to the allegations regarding the links between Juan Pablo Penilla and the political party PAN, Jorge Romero of the PAN distanced himself from these accusations and described as "ridiculous" the members of Morena who insisted on these claims. Romero questioned President Sheinbaum's denial of knowing Penilla, despite images circulating of both together, as well as Penilla with Ricardo Monreal, leader of Morena in the Chamber of Deputies.
In his interview, Romero also mentioned that Penilla had been the lawyer for Miguel Ángel Treviño, 'El Z-40', former leader of the Zetas Cartel, which added further controversy to the situation.
