Ruben Rocha Moya, the governor of Mexico's Sinaloa state, has announced his resignation, temporarily stepping aside to defend himself against U.S. drug trafficking charges. He has repeatedly denied allegations that he provided protection to the powerful Sinaloa cartel.
In a statement, Rocha Moya said he is taking a "temporary leave" to focus on his legal defense. The charges, filed by U.S. authorities, accuse him of conspiring to traffic drugs and of using his position to shield cartel operations. The governor maintains his innocence, calling the accusations politically motivated.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between Mexico and the United States over drug trafficking and corruption. Sinaloa is the home base of the infamous Sinaloa cartel, once led by Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. Rocha Moya, a member of the ruling Morena party, has been governor since 2021.
The resignation raises questions about the stability of the state's government and the broader implications for U.S.-Mexico cooperation on security. Local authorities have not yet named an interim successor.