Mexico Governor Ruben Rocha returns to office despite US criminal charges
Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha Moya has returned to office following a leave of absence amid US criminal charges. Rocha denies allegations that he protected a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel in exchange for political support.
Why it matters
The case highlights escalating tensions between the US and Mexico regarding drug trafficking and the Trump administration's aggressive stance on Mexican cartels.
The governor, who leads the state of Sinaloa, has been accused by the Trump administration of partnering with a cartel.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Sinaloa state Governor Ruben Rocha appears at an earthquake drill in Culiacan, Mexico, on September 19, 2024 [File: Eduardo Verdugo/AP Photo] By Al Jazeera Staff Published On 21 Aug 2026 21 Aug 2026 The governor of the Mexican state of Sinaloa, Ruben Rocha Moya, has returned to his post after facing accusations of drug trafficking from the United States government.
On Friday, Rocha announced on social media that he had resumed his duties, after taking a leave of absence on May 1.
He used his post to maintain his innocence after the US charged him with protecting a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel in exchange for help with his political career.
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