In a controversial move, the Judiciary of Campeche has ordered the media outlet Tribuna de Campeche to submit its content for review by a judicial censor, raising alarms among press freedom advocates. The decision stems from a precautionary measure issued by Judge Edelmira Jaqueline Cervera Sánchez, who ruled that all publications—especially those referencing Governor Layda Sansores—must be vetted to prevent alleged incitement to hatred.
The Human Rights Unit of the Judiciary is expected to oversee this process, ensuring that content aligns with legal standards. As part of the ruling, Tribuna must disclose the identity of its community manager within 48 hours, allowing the appointed censor to monitor social media posts and editorial content. Failure to comply could result in fines for the outlet’s publisher, Organización Editorial del Sureste.
The measure coincides with Governor Sansores’ Fourth Government Report and follows accusations that Tribuna and journalist Jorge Luis González Valdez incited hatred through critical coverage between 2021 and 2025. Critics argue the timing and scope of the censorship suggest an attempt to suppress dissenting voices.
Organizations like Article 19 and academics from UNAM have condemned the ruling as unconstitutional, citing Article 7 of Mexico’s Constitution, which prohibits prior censorship. “This is a direct attack on freedom of expression,” said Leopoldo Maldonado, director of Article 19.
In response, Tribuna de Campeche has announced a temporary suspension of content related to Governor Sansores while legal appeals are underway. The case has ignited national debate over the balance between protecting public figures and preserving journalistic independence.
As the Human Rights Unit steps into its supervisory role, the outcome may set a precedent for media oversight in Mexico’s democratic landscape.
Source: LSR
