### AMLO Criticizes the Release of Mario Marín, Accused of Torturing Lydia Cacho
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) has expressed his disapproval of the judicial decision to release Mario Plutarco Marín Torres, the former governor of Puebla, who has been accused of torturing journalist and activist Lydia Cacho Ribeiro. Marín, often referred to as “Góber Precioso,” served as governor from February 1, 2005, to January 31, 2011. His case has been a contentious subject, especially following the accusations brought by Cacho against him for torture related to her investigative journalism on child prostitution and trafficking networks.
During a recent press conference, held at the National Palace, President López Obrador suggested that Marín’s release was indicative of corrupt practices within the Federal Judiciary (PJF). He criticized the weekend decision as yet another example of what he calls “sabadazo” practices – decisions made strategically on weekends to minimize public scrutiny. AMLO accused Marín of being protected by his adversaries because of his alleged involvement in electoral fraud during the 2006 presidential elections.
The president recounted the tension surrounding the 2006 elections, during which Felipe Calderón from the National Action Party (PAN) initially promised to imprison Marín if elected. However, according to López Obrador, Calderón later exonerated Marín as a political favor after securing his election victory, which AMLO controversially claims was fraudulent.
The events leading to Marín’s recent release stem back to February 2020 when the Second District Court in Quintana Roo formally charged Marín with torture. He was apprehended in Acapulco and transferred to a federal prison in Quintana Roo. Despite these serious charges, a recent court ruling changed his pre-trial detention conditions, allowing him to be released under certain conditions, including a financial guarantee and restrictions on his movement.
Lydia Cacho, who was subject to kidnapping and torture orchestrated by Marín in 2005, voiced her discontent on social media, highlighting that Marín’s wealth and influence continue to sway judicial decisions. The press and human rights organizations, including Article 19, have declared their intention to appeal the decision, reiterating that Marín remains under trial despite his release.
### Secondary Article: A Broader Look at the Lydia Cacho Case and Its Implications
The controversy surrounding Mario Marín’s release has reignited discussions about judicial corruption and the precarious situation for journalists in Mexico. Human rights advocates argue that the legal system often fails to protect victims, particularly those exposing corruption and organized crime.
According to a 2024 report from Article 19, journalists in Mexico face severe threats, with several cases of violence and harassment going unpunished. The organization points out that the release of powerful individuals accused of such crimes underscores systemic issues within the judiciary, necessitating urgent reforms.
Cacho’s case is especially notable for the level of international attention it has received. In August 2018, the United Nations Human Rights Committee ruled in favor of Cacho, demanding comprehensive reparations from the Mexican state. Despite this, meaningful change has been slow, and Cacho continues to live in exile, fearing for her safety.
This situation reflects broader challenges in Mexico where journalists remain vulnerable, and powerful figures often evade accountability. The recent developments in Marín’s case highlight the critical need for strengthened judicial protocols and enforcement mechanisms to ensure justice and protect those who risk their lives to uncover the truth.
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