Sinaloa governor Ruben Rocha Moya seeks leave amid US drug trafficking charges

Sinaloa’s governor, Rubén Rocha Moya, has submitted a request for a second leave of absence just days after resuming his duties, as authorities continue to investigate him on drug‑trafficking allegations. The request, filed with the state’s legislative assembly on Thursday, cites personal health reasons, though officials note it coincides with a federal prosecutor’s indictment that accuses the former mayor of Tijuana of facilitating the movement of narcotics through the state’s ports and highways.

The indictment, unsealed earlier this month, alleges that Rocha Moya used his political influence to shield cartel operations and received financial benefits in exchange for protection. He had previously taken a temporary leave in March to address the same accusations, returning to office in early August after a brief judicial review. The new request has reignited calls from opposition legislators and civil‑society groups for a permanent suspension or impeachment, while legal experts say the case will likely proceed through the federal courts, potentially barring him from holding public office if convicted.