Mexico City, Oct 2 (Alliance News): Claudia Sheinbaum was inaugurated on Tuesday as Mexico’s first female president, marking a historic moment in the nation’s politics.
She steps into office facing significant challenges, including high violence rates and a sluggish economy.
Claudia Sheinbaum made history on Tuesday as she was sworn in as Mexico’s first female president, with legislators celebrating the milestone by chanting “Presidenta! Presidenta!” for the first time in over 200 years.
The 62-year-old scientist-turned-politician inherits a country grappling with persistent violence, an underperforming economy, rising debt, and the aftermath of Hurricane John, which devastated Acapulco.
In her inaugural speech, Sheinbaum highlighted her commitment to representing women who have fought for equality in Mexico, asserting that dreams should not be determined by gender.
She outlined an ambitious agenda, promising to limit prices on gasoline and food, expand financial aid for women and children, and support investment in housing and transportation.
However, her plans for addressing the rampant violence, particularly from drug cartels, were less detailed. Sheinbaum acknowledged the ongoing issues but offered little change to the outgoing administration’s approach, dubbed ‘Hugs not Bullets.’
She pledged to enhance intelligence operations without returning to the “irresponsible drug war” of the past.
Sheinbaum won the presidency with nearly 60% of the vote, buoyed by the popularity of her mentor, former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
She has promised to continue his social programs while addressing criticisms regarding the consolidation of military power and a lack of checks and balances in governance.
Political analysts note that while Sheinbaum holds significant power with López Obrador’s Morena party controlling both houses of Congress, she will face intense scrutiny due to her more cautious approach compared to her predecessor’s charismatic leadership. “López Obrador’s charisma allowed him to cover up some political errors, which Sheinbaum will not have the luxury to do,” said Carlos Pérez Ricart, a political analyst.
The incoming president’s first trip will be to Acapulco, a city still reeling from the impacts of Hurricane John, which caused severe flooding and destruction. With drug-related violence surging in cities like Culiacán and Tijuana, Sheinbaum faces the daunting task of restoring order in a nation deeply affected by cartel activity.
Opposition voices caution against an all-powerful government. “If we want a strong government, the checks and balances also have to be strong,” stated opposition Senator María Guadalupe Murguía, emphasizing the need for accountability in governance.
