Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has publicly criticized the presence of Rosa María Payá Acevedo, a member of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (CIDH), in Mexico. The rebuke stems from Payá’s participation in meetings with right-wing and anti-Castro organizations, raising questions about the appropriate role of a human rights observer within a sovereign nation.
Speaking at her regular morning press conference on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Sheinbaum stated that individuals representing the CIDH should focus on investigating human rights complaints rather than advocating for specific political causes. “If they reach on behalf of the Commission, they cannot advocate for one side or another, but rather to review if You’ll see any complaints,” she said.
Sheinbaum revealed she has requested a report from the Secretariat of Foreign Relations regarding Payá Acevedo’s visit, following publication of a report in La Jornada. The move underscores the government’s concern over potential foreign interference in domestic political matters.
Against Censorship in All Its Forms
Despite her concerns, Sheinbaum clarified she does not support Article 33 of the Mexican Constitution, which allows for the expulsion of foreigners engaged in political activities. “I am simply in favor of informing, of informing,” she stated. This position highlights a nuanced approach, balancing national security concerns with principles of open dialogue.
Payá Acevedo participated in a forum in January titled “Cuba and Latin America, Six Decades of Authoritarianism,” hosted by the Universidad de la Libertad, an institution founded by businessman Ricardo Salinas Pliego and sponsored by the Centro Ricardo Salinas Pliego.
Sheinbaum also addressed the spread of misinformation about her government on digital platforms linked to right-wing organizations. She claimed these platforms systematically disseminate false information targeting her personally “without any basis.” However, she reiterated her opposition to censorship, emphasizing the importance of debate and factual reporting. “We don’t censor anyone, no one. We debate, yes, but there is no censorship here,” she said, while acknowledging the prevalence of false information.
“What do we have to do? Always notify the truth, and retain responding, debating and informing people since if we don’t inform people, then what remains is that,” Sheinbaum added, referencing a saying by former President López Obrador that falsehoods can capture root if left unchallenged. “They keep saying lies, lies, lies, to witness if it sticks with someone.”
