Sheinbaum will send a note of estrangement to the United Kingdom for granting asylum to Karime Macías: 'she is accused of fraud'
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced her intention to send a diplomatic note to the UK protesting the asylum granted to Karime Macías, who is accused of fraud and corruption in Mexico.
Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, has declared her intention to send a diplomatic note of estrangement to the United Kingdom following its decision to grant asylum to Karime Macías, the spouse of the former Veracruz governor, Javier Duarte. Sheinbaum expressed her strong disapproval of this asylum, emphasizing that Macías is currently facing serious accusations of fraud and corruption involving significant financial misappropriation. The decision to grant asylum has sparked considerable anger and disapproval within the Mexican government.
In her statements made from the Treasury Hall at the National Palace, Sheinbaum highlighted the severity of the allegations against Macías, mentioning that documents linked to her were found in a warehouse that detail a diversion of funds amounting to 415 million pesos. The President noted that Macías had kept a notebook that reportedly contained incriminating phrases that suggest her awareness of her illicit financial affairs and luxurious lifestyle. This statement reflects the broader context of ongoing corruption trials against Duarte and associates, highlighting the challenges Mexico faces regarding political corruption and impunity.
The Mexican government, through the Foreign Relations Secretary, is set to formally convey its discontent with the asylum situation to the British authorities. Sheinbaum's comments during the daily morning press conference underscore the government's commitment to addressing the issue of corruption and seeking justice for the financial crimes associated with former officials in Veracruz. The implications of the UK's decision could strain diplomatic relations between Mexico and the UK, particularly in how countries address international asylum cases involving individuals charged with serious crimes at home.