**Federation Proposes New Security Secretary in Tijuana; Leyzaola to Serve as Advisor**
Despite claims by Tijuana’s newly inaugurated mayor, Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, that there would be “no problem” in appointing Julián Leyzaola Pérez as the city’s security secretary, developments have taken a different turn. On October 7, 2024, the proposal to appoint another candidate, endorsed by the federal government, was announced. The proposal will be subject to a vote by the city council.
The proposed candidate is Juan Manuel Sánchez Rosales, who boasts an extensive background in security and intelligence. His past roles include serving as a deputy delegate in the Department of Investigation in Baja California and holding intelligence and investigation positions across several federal entities. His experience spans roles in the Security Secretariat of Mexico City and the Public Security Secretariat of the state of Chihuahua.
During the recent campaign, Julián Leyzaola Pérez was publicly positioned as the likely security collaborator should Burgueño Ruiz, former leader of the Morena party, win the mayoral seat. However, with the transition period underway, it was revealed that Iván Olivas would assume the role of private secretary to the mayor, and the majority of the cabinet had already been presented by the mayor-elect on September 26.
Mayor Burgueño Ruiz mentioned that although Leyzaola had been initially considered for the role, a proposal had emerged through collaboration with the federal government, suggesting Juan Manuel Sánchez Rosales for the position. Leyzaola supposedly agrees with the change of plans and will instead join the XXV City Council as an advisor on security matters.
“In terms of security, we’re seeing a more strengthened team, which is exactly what Tijuana needs,” Burgueño Ruiz explained in a press conference at the Municipal Palace. He emphasized the importance of intelligence in crime prevention, highlighting Sánchez Rosales’ well-prepared profile as beneficial. Additionally, Leyzaola will still be visible in security analysis and evaluation meetings, providing local advisement.
The city council is set to hold a session to consider the nomination for the security secretary position, evaluating a list of candidates that includes Sánchez Rosales, José Alonso López Sepúlveda, and Carlos Arturo Huacuja Betancourt. Burgueño reiterated his support for Sánchez Rosales, explaining that within the ruling party, the significance of the task at hand surpasses the importance of the position itself.
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**Secondary Article**
**Security Leadership Reshuffling in Tijuana Reflects Broader National Trends**
The shift in proposed security leadership in Tijuana, with Juan Manuel Sánchez Rosales being advanced as a candidate, comes amid a larger pattern in Mexico of governments reshaping their security strategies. Recent national statistics indicate a focus on enhancing intelligence and preventive measures in combating crime across various regions.
Throughout September 2024, employment growth in Mexico was modest, with only around 90,000 new jobs created, marking a low not seen in a decade. Economic analysts suggest that bolstering security and stability could contribute positively to the economic landscape, reinforcing trust and safety within communities.
In parallel developments, the federal government has expressed interest in taking over certain high-profile investigations, such as the recent case involving the assassination of the mayor of Chilpancingo. This reflects an ongoing effort to centralize key security functions to ensure a consistent and comprehensive approach across the nation.
As Tijuana navigates these changes, its leadership remains adamant that a collaborative approach with federal and local agencies is essential to prioritizing and addressing the city’s security challenges effectively.