Lawyer Juan Pablo Penilla Rodríguez was recently mentioned in relation to alleged ties with the national leadership of Morena during the 2024 electoral campaign. This sparked controversy and led the leftist party to deny such claims.
Penilla Rodríguez is known as one of the lawyers for Sinaloa Cartel leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada. It was revealed that he participated as a legal advisor in President Claudia Sheinbaum's campaign during last year's elections. Both the Tamaulipas government and the Morena leadership denied having any connection with Penilla Rodríguez, despite the release of photographs linking him with prominent figures.
The lawyer holds a degree in Law from the Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas and represents 'El Mayo' Zambada, who faces charges for drug trafficking and homicides in the United States. Zambada mentioned Penilla Rodríguez in a document addressed to the Mexican Consulate in New York, requesting consular assistance and repatriation.
Although 'El Mayo' Zambada has primary defense from Frank Pérez, also known for leading the defense of 'El Vicentillo', Zambada has stated that Penilla is one of his legal advisors in Mexico.
President Sheinbaum has denied personally knowing Juan Pablo Penilla, justifying that during public events she takes pictures with many people and does not keep precise track of who they are. Additionally, Sheinbaum has assured that her government will investigate any possible relationship with Penilla and will take necessary actions.
These events have arisen amid the controversy surrounding 'El Mayo' Zambada's repatriation request and his warning about the consequences for U.S.-Mexico relations if not addressed. Sheinbaum has emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and integrity in her administration, reiterating that she will not engage in complicity with any person or group.
