Andrea Monserrat Ramos Gómez has spoken publicly about the assault she suffered on December 19, 2024, allegedly at the hands of Morena substitute deputy Elena Ríos, her sister Silvia Ríos Ortiz, and bodyguards at Reforma Hospital in Oaxaca. Monserrat described the incident as an attempted kidnapping, aggravated physical assault, and sexual violence.

A quote attributed to Andrea Monserrat Ramos Gómez reads, “This woman [Elena Ríos] took off my intimate clothing and injured me. Doctors at the Women’s Prosecutor’s Office confirmed it,” accompanied by an image of Andrea visibly distressed, with marks on her face. The graphic includes her name in bold and further context of her accusations against Elena Ríos and her bodyguards.

Monserrat said the attack left her with injuries to her private parts and emotional scars that continue to affect her daily life. She criticized the prosecutor handling her case, Margarita Guzmán Corsi, for reducing the charges to simple injuries despite clear medical and video evidence. “What more proof do they need?” Andrea asked, pointing to videos that show Ríos and her group initiating the attack.

CEDEM Stands with Andrea

Feminist group La Brujas Del Mar publicly criticized the shifting narrative surrounding María Elena Ríos, stating, “We will never grant the role of victim to a victimizer,” highlighting their stance on the allegations. In contrast, CEDEM, a women’s rights organization, has actively taken up Andrea Monserrat Ramos Gómez’s case. They pledged unwavering support, stating, “We are not afraid. We stand tall and will continue to fight until justice is served.”

Specialized Center for Human and Women’s Rights and other organization, CEDEM announced plans for a march on March 8, International Women’s Day, to demand accountability and justice for Andrea. The organization confirmed they are compiling medical and psychological evidence to strengthen the case and called out the selective enforcement of laws in Oaxaca, vowing to hold those responsible accountable.

Widespread Criticism of Ríos

The case has sparked outrage among activists and the public. An Indigenous activist expressed anger over Ríos’ alleged actions, calling her behavior “animalistic” and demanding her immediate imprisonment. Critics have also highlighted Ríos’ misuse of her platform, accusing her of justifying violence while claiming to represent women’s rights.

Journalist Carolina Rocha criticized María Elena Ríos, asserting, “Violence is violence, regardless of who commits it.” Rocha highlighted the silence of public figures who privately criticize Ríos but avoid speaking out openly. One example is Eufrosina Cruz, an indigenous activist and politician from Oaxaca. Cruz, who grew up speaking Zapotec and is a saxophonist herself, has served as both a federal and state congresswoman and was named one of Forbes’ 100 most powerful women in the same year as Ríos. A member of the PRI political party, Cruz occasionally aligns with Ríos’ criticisms, such as her recent protest against Governor Salomón Jara.

Despite this public alignment, Cruz has also quietly liked posts condemning Ríos’ violent behavior. Rocha noted this contradiction, revealing that Cruz, like many others, feels safer expressing disapproval privately. Rocha described Ríos as having “hijacked the voice of women’s activism,” creating an atmosphere where public figures hesitate to openly challenge her.

Progress in the Investigation

Prosecutor Bernardo Rodríguez Alamilla assured the public that the case is under review and that “there will be no impunity.” Meanwhile, CEDEM is working to ensure the case reflects the full scope of the assault, including physical and sexual violence. Andrea continues to call for justice, saying, “If I had attacked María Elena, I would already be in jail.”

Andrea’s case has brought attention to the issue of selective justice in Oaxaca. Many fear Ríos’ political position as a substitute deputy will shield her from consequences. Andrea, however, remains resolute. “I don’t hate her, but she has to take responsibility for what she did to me.” The fight for justice continues as CEDEM and supporters work to hold those involved accountable and bring much-needed attention to the case.

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