Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has condemned the mayor of Coalcomán, Michoacán, for allegedly “thanking” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) for gifts distributed to children during Christmas celebrations.
The controversy erupted after a large banner was displayed in the town plaza, expressing gratitude to CJNG leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera for his generosity. The mayor, Anavel Ávila Castrejón, was seen near the banner, which fueled speculation about her approval. During the event, another local official reportedly spoke from a stage, further thanking the cartel leader.
The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral, sparking public outrage and prompting investigations by state and federal authorities.
President Sheinbaum announced that the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) is investigating Ávila Castrejón for potential ties to the criminal organization. Michoacán Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla also called for Ávila Castrejón’s resignation to ensure a transparent investigation.
Ávila Castrejón, 38, has denied any association with the CJNG. Before her election as mayor in June 2024 under the Movimiento Ciudadano (MC) banner, she worked as an administrator at a paint company and ran unsuccessfully for municipal positions.
Antonio Carreño, the leader of Movimiento Ciudadano in Michoacán, has urged a comprehensive investigation into Ávila Castrejón and her administration.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has raised the reward for information leading to the capture of “El Mencho” to $15 million.