The Oaxaca State Prosecutor’s Office has pledged that there will be no impunity in the investigation of María Elena Ríos, a substitute deputy and saxophonist, accused of physical and sexual assault. Prosecutor José Bernardo Rodríguez Alamilla assured the public, “Violence against women is violence, wherever it comes from.” He confirmed that an investigation is actively underway.

The Allegations Against Elena Ríos

The case centers on an incident at Reforma Hospital in Oaxaca, where Ríos, her sister Silvia Ríos, and her federally assigned bodyguards allegedly attacked Andrea Montserrat Ramos Gómez. Andrea has accused Ríos of initiating the assault, which included physical and sexual violence. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Ríos lifting Andrea’s dress, ripping off her underwear, and assaulting her, with bodyguards restraining Andrea during the attack.

The alleged violence has drawn widespread criticism and calls for accountability, especially given Ríos’ position as a Morena substitute deputy.

Prosecutor’s Commitment Against Ríos’ Political and Social Influence

Prosecutor Rodríguez Alamilla addressed concerns about potential bias in the investigation due to Ríos’ political connections. “We are in the process of building the case file, and justice will be pursued,” he stated. The prosecutor emphasized that the status or affiliations of the accused would not shield them from accountability.

Ríos’ role as a substitute deputy and her support from women’s groups and public figures, including artists, has sparked questions about whether these connections could influence the investigation. Critics have pointed out that institutional protection and political privilege often obstruct justice in similar cases.

Activists have raised concerns about the potential for selective justice, citing the need for impartiality regardless of Ríos’ political affiliations or past victimhood as a survivor of a high-profile acid attack.

Broader Implications

This case shows the systemic challenges in holding politically connected individuals accountable in Mexico. The prosecutor’s commitment to ensuring justice in this case is a critical test for the Oaxaca justice system. As the investigation progresses, transparency and accountability will be essential to maintain public trust. Advocacy groups and citizens continue to demand that political status and social influence do not overshadow the pursuit of justice.

The assault on Andrea Montserrat shows the need to address all forms of violence against women and to ensure that no perpetrator, regardless of their connections or position, escapes accountability.

Discover more from Feminegra

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.