Morena’s Ricardo Monreal Rejects Dialogue with Organized Crime, Urges Law Enforcement
Ricardo Monreal, the coordinator of Morena in the Chamber of Deputies, stated that dialogues with organized crime are illegal. He emphasized the need to apply the law instead of negotiating with criminals. This response came after Sinaloa’s governor, Rubén Rocha, acknowledged having “meetings” with criminal groups.
Monreal commented, “We do not believe there is a need for dialogue with them because it is illegal, neither truce nor dialogue, just application of the law.” He suggested that Rocha might have spoken in error, as no one in the current government would agree to speak with criminals to seek a truce amidst rising violence.
Monreal expressed respect for Rocha but reiterated that the government would not accept any dialogue with criminal groups. He defended the need for a strong legal approach to tackling crime.
How does Ricardo Monreal propose to address the underlying causes of organized crime in Mexico?
Interview with Ricardo Monreal: Dialogue with Organized Crime Is Not an Option
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Ricardo Monreal, coordinator of Morena in the Chamber of Deputies. Recently, you made headlines by emphasizing that dialogue with organized crime is illegal. Can you elaborate on your stance?
Ricardo Monreal: Thank you for having me. My position is clear: there should be no dialogue or truce with organized crime. Our focus must be on the unwavering application of the law. Engaging in discussions with criminals only undermines our legal system and acknowledges their illegitimacy.
News Directory 3: Your comments followed Sinaloa’s governor Rubén Rocha’s admission of holding “meetings” with criminal groups. How do you view his statements?
Ricardo Monreal: I have great respect for Governor Rocha, but I believe he may have misspoken. In our current political climate, no one in the government would endorse negotiations with criminal entities when we face a surge in violence. We must remain resolute in our commitment to law enforcement.
News Directory 3: Another deputy, Manuel Espino, has proposed establishing a “Special Commission for National Pacification and Reconciliation” to promote dialogue with organized crime. What are your thoughts on this initiative?
Ricardo Monreal: The idea of a special commission is misguided. While Mr. Espino speaks about fostering peace, we cannot expect pacification through dialogue with those who operate outside the law. The only valid approach is a strong legal framework that ensures justice prevails.
News Directory 3: Espino argues that true peace cannot exist without dialogue. How do you respond to that viewpoint?
Ricardo Monreal: Dialogue with organized crime only legitimizes their activities and provides them a platform. True peace is built on law and order, not negotiations with those who propagate violence and fear. We must work towards social development, addressing the root causes of crime rather than facilitating conversations with criminals.
News Directory 3: What steps do you believe the government should take to combat organized crime effectively?
Ricardo Monreal: The government must enhance our legal and security frameworks. This includes greater investment in law enforcement, comprehensive crime prevention strategies, and community engagement that promotes legal norms. Our focus should be on dismantling criminal networks rather than creating pathways for dialogue.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Ricardo Monreal, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your commitment to maintaining the rule of law is vital as we navigate the challenges posed by organized crime in our society.
Ricardo Monreal: Thank you for having me. It’s essential for us to address these issues head-on and remain committed to the principles of justice.
On October 11, another Morenista deputy, Manuel Espino, proposed creating a special commission in the Chamber of Deputies to engage in conversations with organized crime. He suggested establishing a “Special Commission for National Pacification and Reconciliation.” He highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of peace in a climate filled with resentment and animosity.
When asked about this commission’s potential to promote dialogue with criminal groups, Espino affirmed, “Yes, of course, to promote dialogue wherever it is appropriate. There can be no peace without dialogue. Pacifying a community is impossible without it.”