Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum sparked controversy this week after urging citizens not to watch TV Azteca, accusing the broadcaster of spreading “lies.” While critics denounced her remarks as censorship, Sheinbaum insisted they were merely her personal opinion and not an attempt to silence the media.
What began in Mexico has set off alarm bells across the continent.
From Colombia and Venezuela to Peru and Paraguay, Latin American journalists are calling the actions against TV Azteca a “worrying attack and siege on freedom of expression.”
It’s not just about one media outlet; organizations like the AIR (Association of Latin American Journalists) and the Latin American News Alliance denounce a violation of the fundamental pillars of democracy.
When a government calls for a boycott, it’s not just attacking a company; it’s attacking your right to know the truth.
The Statements
- On May 25, 2026, during her morning press conference at Palacio Nacional, Sheinbaum told the public: “Don’t watch TV Azteca, there are many lies.”
- She later clarified that her comments were not censorship, but rather a personal opinion about the broadcaster’s coverage.
- She emphasized that her administration has not used state power to restrict media content, contrasting her approach with past governments accused of silencing critics.
Reactions
- TV Azteca responded by accusing Sheinbaum of attempting to undermine freedom of expression, warning that such statements could set a dangerous precedent.
- Civil society groups, including Causa en Común, argued that a president telling citizens what media to consume violates the spirit of Article 6 of the Mexican Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.
- Opposition politicians, such as members of the PAN, warned that today’s criticism of TV Azteca could extend to other outlets tomorrow, raising fears of broader media intimidation.
Context
- The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between the government and media, with Sheinbaum’s administration facing scrutiny over security issues and U.S. accusations of corruption involving officials in Sinaloa.
- Sheinbaum defended her remarks by arguing that freedom of expression remains intact, since outlets like TV Azteca continue to broadcast critical content without state interference.
President Sheinbaum’s call to avoid TV Azteca has ignited a national debate over the boundaries between political opinion and censorship. While she insists her comments were personal, critics argue that such statements carry weight when made by the head of state, potentially undermining Mexico’s democratic principles.
Source: N+
