Civil society groups and business owners protested at the Government Palace in Culiacán to demand the removal of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya [1, 2].
The demonstrations signal a growing rift between the state administration and local economic leaders who argue that current governance has failed to address critical stability issues.
Protesters called for a definitive end to the political influence of the group linked to Rocha Moya [1, 2]. The demonstrators asked the state Congress to either initiate impeachment proceedings against the governor or appoint an interim governor who possesses no political ties [2].
Those gathered at the palace said the administration of Rocha Moya has led to increased insecurity and economic stagnation within the state [2]. The activists said there is a need for a structural break from the current political group to restore order and growth in Sinaloa [2].
The movement includes a diverse coalition of citizens, activists, and business representatives [1, 2]. They said the current leadership is unable or unwilling to implement the changes necessary to curb violence and stimulate the local economy [2].
While the protesters focused their demands on the legislative branch, the gathering at the Government Palace served as a public display of discontent with the executive branch's handling of public safety [1]. The group said only a leader without partisan affiliations could effectively navigate the current crisis [2].
“Protesters called for a definitive end to the political influence of the group linked to Rocha Moya.”
The protests in Culiacán reflect a deepening crisis of legitimacy for Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, specifically regarding his ability to manage security in a region historically plagued by cartel violence. By demanding a non-political interim governor, the business community and civil society are signaling that they no longer trust partisan political structures to provide the stability required for economic investment and public safety.
