Segob acknowledges shortcomings of the Mechanism to Protect Journalists; terminates contract with RCU Sistemas

The Mexican Ministry of Public Security (Segob) has acknowledged shortcomings in the Mechanism for Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists, and has announced the termination of its contract with RCU Sistemas, a company suspected of ties to political figures within the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). The decision was made during a morning press conference held by Secretary of Government Rosa Icela Rodríguez on Friday, August 21, 2026, in Mexico City. Rodríguez stated that the ministry had been attentive to complaints regarding the performance of RCU Sistemas and had informed the company that its services would soon cease. While she admitted that replacing the contractor was not a simple process, she emphasized that action was being taken. She reiterated that the government does not ignore concerns and continues to work toward improvements. The move comes amid reports that workers associated with the protection mechanism have not received their payments, raising questions about the effectiveness of the program. In 2021, the Ministry of Public Security contracted services from RCU Sistemas S.A. de C.V. and the Federal Protection Service to implement protective measures for individuals benefiting from the program. However, media reports raised concerns about the company's alleged connections to former Interior Secretary Genaro García Luna, which the protection mechanism denied in a statement. Recent incidents of violence against journalists and the murders of communication professionals have prompted Rodríguez to reaffirm that the federal government upholds freedom of expression and allows open discussion. She noted that while the mechanism may have some deficiencies, it currently serves around 3,000 individuals, including human rights defenders and journalists. Daily complaints are received and addressed, and she stressed that there is no consensus among citizens that freedom of speech is absent. She pointed out that people can access news through radio, television, and other channels, all of which operate freely. Rodríguez also mentioned that while there might be issues in certain state or local governments, these are not representative of the country as a whole. The secretary further explained that morning press conferences are a democratic exercise, allowing journalists to ask questions and authorities to respond openly, a practice uncommon elsewhere globally. She acknowledged that there could be flaws in the mechanism and that efforts are ongoing to enhance its administration based on feedback. The government respects the work of journalists, acknowledging the challenges they face, and maintains that the protection mechanism activates upon receiving complaints or denuncies. Despite these assurances, the situation remains contentious. Some critics argue that the lack of payment to workers undermines the credibility of the program, while others question whether content creators should be eligible for such protections. As the ministry moves forward in seeking a more effective management system, the focus will remain on addressing these concerns and ensuring the safety of those who report on sensitive issues. The outcome of this transition will likely shape future discussions on media protection in Mexico.