Background on César Duarte and His Relevance
César Duarte is a former governor of the Mexican state of Chihuahua, who served as a member of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). His political career has been marked by controversies and allegations of corruption. Recently, Duarte has been accused of illegally hoarding water resources on his ranch.
Mexican Authorities Take Action Against Duarte
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the current head of Mexico City’s government, announced that her administration will file a criminal complaint with the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR) against César Duarte for the illegal use of water resources.
Conagua’s Role and Findings
Efraín Morales, the general director of the National Water Commission (Conagua), explained that Duarte had illegally taken control of water resources within his property. He constructed five unauthorized dams and reservoirs across hundreds of hectares, effectively monopolizing the water supply for personal gain. An estimated 700,000 cubic meters of water were being used for Duarte’s benefit.
Legal Challenges and Progression
Following a formal notification from Conagua, the demolition of these unauthorized structures began. However, a legal challenge arose when provisional suspension was granted within 24 hours at the request of individuals claiming to be Duarte’s relatives. The judge who issued this suspension had previously halted the distribution of textbooks in Chihuahua.
Impact on Water Resources and Broader Context
Part of the seized water volume belongs to the 1944 international treaty water basin between Mexico and the United States, which adds to the severity of the case. Moreover, Sheinbaum Pardo mentioned that crucial water concession information was lost due to a fire at Conagua’s headquarters, complicating the regularization process.
Conagua’s Ongoing Efforts
In addition to the Duarte case, Conagua is reviewing concessions and conducting verifications nationwide. As of now, there have been over 250 closures related to these inspections.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is César Duarte? César Duarte is a former governor of Chihuahua, Mexico, who has been accused of illegally hoarding water resources on his ranch.
- What actions is the Mexican government taking against Duarte? The Mexican government, led by Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, has filed a criminal complaint with the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR) against Duarte for illegal water use.
- What role does Conagua play in this situation? The National Water Commission (Conagua) identified the illegal water hoarding, initiated demolition of unauthorized dams, and is reviewing concessions nationwide.
- What challenges have arisen during this process? Legal challenges, such as provisional suspensions granted by judges, have complicated the demolition process. Additionally, crucial water concession information was lost due to a fire at Conagua’s headquarters.
