Introduction
On Saturday, Mexico City’s Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum declared that she governs without “paraphernalia,” using a small team of 10 young individuals from her personal security detail as an example. While this statement may sound politically appealing, it poses significant risks in terms of security.
The Risks of a Reduced Security Detail
Ten people are insufficient to ensure the safety of a high-profile figure, especially in a country where organized crime possesses military-grade weaponry and intelligence networks, and the political climate is fraught with radical opponents. Security experts agree that a team of 60 to 120 trained professionals, divided into three layers—immediate protection, environmental control, and preventive intelligence—is necessary to adequately safeguard someone of such prominence.
During a recent walk in Mexico City’s Historic Center, an individual managed to approach and inappropriately touch Mayor Sheinbaum. This incident, beyond being harassment, exposed the failure of her immediate security circle. If someone can breach the perimeter to assault her, they could also attempt to attack her. This episode demonstrated that the “closeness without pomp” is a vulnerability.
The Institutional Responsibility of Protecting a Head of State
The security of a head of state is not a privilege but an institutional responsibility. Their role is to protect the continuity of government and prevent political or social crises resulting from an attack. An assault on the president would have immediate economic and diplomatic consequences, potentially destabilizing the country and undermining international confidence in Mexico.
Countries facing threats from terrorism, political violence, or organized crime—such as the United States, France, Colombia, and Brazil—have extensive and professional security structures. The U.S. Secret Service employs over 3,000 agents, the French Presidential Security Group (GSPR) has between 90 and 120 members, Colombia’s Presidential Security has around 200 personnel, and Brazil’s team consists of approximately 150 individuals protecting their president. Mexico cannot expect 10 civilian youngsters to replace this technical and human capacity.
The Importance of Leadership in the Security Detail
The person leading the security detail, Juan José Ramírez Mendoza, is the brother of Sebastián Ramirez, a former Morena leader and current head of Fonatur. There is no known background in executive protection, military, or police tactics. Before joining public service, he reportedly worked as a sports marketing coordinator for radio and television.
Placing someone with this profile in charge of the president’s immediate security is confusing loyalty with competence.
Balancing Closeness and Professionalism
While governing without ostentation is desirable, exposing oneself unnecessarily is not. Mayor Sheinbaum can continue to display closeness, but under a professional scheme that does not rely on improvisation or luck.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Why is a reduced security detail risky for Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum? A: A small team of 10 is insufficient to protect a high-profile figure, especially in a country with organized crime and political opponents. Security experts recommend 60 to 120 trained professionals for adequate protection.
- Q: What are the consequences of a successful attack on a head of state? A: An assault on the president could lead to immediate economic and diplomatic crises, potentially destabilizing the country and undermining international confidence.
- Q: Why is the leadership of the security detail crucial? A: The person in charge should have a proven background in executive protection, military, or police tactics. Placing an individual without such experience in charge can lead to confusion between loyalty and competence.
