Mexico’s Attorney General Gertz Resigns, Raising Questions Over Security Leadership

Post by : Saif

Mexico is facing a new moment of uncertainty after the resignation of Attorney General Alejandro Gertz Manero was approved by the Senate on Thursday. Gertz, who is 86 years old, had held the role since 2019 and was originally expected to serve until 2028. His departure comes at a time when the government of President Claudia Sheinbaum is under strong pressure to address rising violence and major security concerns across the country.

There had been weeks of speculation about whether Gertz would step down. These rumors grew stronger as questions were raised about how the government is handling security challenges, especially after the shocking murder of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in the troubled state of Michoacán. His killing in early November brought fresh attention to violence in regions long affected by criminal groups.

Before the Senate vote, President Sheinbaum had been asked about Gertz’s possible resignation during her daily news conference. She confirmed she had received a letter from the Senate and was analyzing it. While she said she would provide more information on Friday, the Senate moved ahead with the vote, approving the resignation with 74 votes in favor and 22 against. No senators abstained, showing how important and urgent the decision was for the country’s political leaders.

Gertz was a well-known figure in Mexico’s justice system. His appointment in 2019 made him the first attorney general under a new law that gave more independence to the office. His nine-year term was meant to help stabilize the justice system, but his resignation means Mexico now faces a major leadership gap at a sensitive moment. Security issues remain one of the biggest challenges for Sheinbaum’s government, and the choice of the next attorney general will be closely watched.

Under the law, President Sheinbaum must now send a list of three candidates to the Senate. The Senate will then choose the new attorney general through a two-thirds majority vote. Local media have speculated that Ernestina Godoy could be a strong candidate. Godoy previously served as Mexico City’s attorney general and currently works as the president’s legal adviser. However, the government has not confirmed any names, and officials have avoided commenting on the selection process so far.

Gertz’s resignation comes at a time when many Mexicans are demanding stronger action against crime and safer communities. The murder of Mayor Manzo has added urgency to these demands. Michoacán and other states continue to struggle with powerful criminal groups, and citizens are looking to the government for clear leadership and solutions.

The departure of the attorney general also raises questions about continuity in Mexico’s justice system. Some believe new leadership could bring fresh energy and stronger strategies. Others worry that replacing such a senior official during a time of crisis could create delays or confusion in key investigations.

What is certain is that Mexico is entering an important transition. The next attorney general will play a central role in shaping the country’s security policies and restoring public trust. As the nation waits for President Sheinbaum to announce the three candidates, many citizens hope the selection will focus on experience, independence, and a firm commitment to justice.

The coming weeks will show how the government responds to this challenge and whether it can reassure the public that security remains a top priority.

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