On the morning of July 24, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the newly elected president of Mexico, shared her thoughts on the case involving Emilio Lozoya, the company Odebrecht, and Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex). This announcement coincided with the news that Lozoya would indeed face trial due to allegations of organized crime, bribery, and money laundering.
During a press conference held at her transition office in Iztapalapa, Sheinbaum mentioned that although she is not fully briefed on the ongoing trial against the former director of Pemex during Enrique Peña Nieto’s presidency, she emphasized the extensive corruption that plagued Pemex, particularly concerning the 2013 Energy Reform.
She stated, "I’m not familiar with the specifics mentioned. However, it is clear that there was significant corruption in Pemex under the previous administration, with kickbacks associated with the 2013 Energy Reform."
Although Sheinbaum, a member of the National Regeneration Movement (Morena), referred to the previous administration, she also pointed out that Pemex suffered during Felipe Calderón’s presidency. She stressed that corruption has been an ongoing issue. Ultimately, the responsibility of determining whether a crime was committed lies with the Attorney General’s Office (FGR).
She noted, "The FGR will need to make that determination. What is evident is that there was corruption, as reflected in Pemex’s debt incurred between the Calderón and Peña Nieto administrations, and the implications of the relationship with Odebrecht. However, the FGR will provide clarity on this matter."
Sheinbaum’s statements are particularly relevant as the trial unfolds, and many are watching how it will impact Mexico’s political landscape. The situation continues to evolve, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
For further context on Emilio Lozoya and related corruption issues, you may explore articles from reliable news sources such as Reuters.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2024/07/24/sheinbaum-reacciona-al-juicio-de-emilio-lozoya-por-el-caso-odebrecht-tendra-que-definir-la-fiscalia/
