Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced she will press charges against a man who groped her during a public appearance near the National Palace in Mexico City. The incident, captured on mobile video, shows a man approaching Sheinbaum from behind, trying to kiss her neck and touch her body. She quickly moved away as her security intervened.

Police arrested the suspect shortly after the attack. “If I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women?” Sheinbaum said at a news conference. She stressed that her decision to press charges was to stand up against harassment faced by women nationwide. “A line must be drawn,” she declared.

Women’s rights groups have condemned the act, calling it proof of Mexico’s deep-rooted machismo culture, where even the president faces sexual aggression. Activists note that femicide remains a major issue, with 98% of gender-based murders going unpunished.

Sheinbaum pledged to fight violence against women during her campaign but has faced criticism for limited progress. Despite this incident, she said she will continue meeting citizens directly. “I won’t stop connecting with people,” she affirmed.

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The attack occurred just days after Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo was murdered during Day of the Dead celebrations, highlighting ongoing security concerns for Mexican officials. Since taking office, Sheinbaum has focused on improving public safety and curbing fentanyl trafficking, a key issue in Mexico–U.S. relations.