Morena Leaders Reject Maru Campos' Unsubstantiated Narco Claims

President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly defended Morena leader Ariadna Montiel, rejecting Chihuahua Governor Maru Campos’ allegations of criminal ties as baseless. The dispute erupted after Campos revealed details of a tense private meeting with Sheinbaum, accusing Montiel of having connections to organized crime and blaming former state prosecutor César Jáuregui for allowing CIA agents into Mexico during a recent anti-drug operation.

Montiel categorically denied the accusations, calling them a distraction from the investigation into Jáuregui’s alleged treason. "She is trying to divert public debate about the detention of the former prosecutor," Montiel stated in an interview with Milenio. She argued that Campos, as the state’s superior authority, should also face scrutiny regarding foreign agent operations authorized under her tenure.

The National Committee of Morena (CEN) issued a statement backing Montiel, asserting that political differences do not justify personal calumnies without evidence. They emphasized that any accuser bears the moral and legal obligation to present proof before competent authorities. This stance was echoed by 24 Morena governors who signed a joint declaration condemning the use of security issues for political gain.

Conversely, the PAN defended Campos, arguing that the federal government is orchestrating a "political condemnation" against the governor. The party insisted that accusations must be handled through due process and respect for the presumption of innocence. Meanwhile, Morena deputy Ricardo Monreal criticized Campos for revealing private diplomatic conversations, labeling such actions as imprudent and damaging to political trust.

Legal repercussions are imminent. Cruz Pérez Cuéllar, a Morena aspirant for Chihuahua’s governorship, announced he will file complaints with the National Electoral Institute (INE) and pursue civil damages for moral harm. As tensions escalate, both sides remain entrenched: Morena demands transparency on sovereignty violations, while PAN calls for institutional restraint and adherence to legal procedures.