The Tangled Life and Tragic Death of Héctor Cuén

Héctor Cuén, a prominent figure in Sinaloa's political landscape, has been at the center of controversy following his recent arrest. Cuén, who served as the rector of the state’s leading public university and held various political positions, including municipal president of Culiacán, had been embroiled in a bitter feud with Governor Rocha, his former ally. The arrest has raised eyebrows, particularly after the Sinaloa Cartel leader, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, claimed betrayal by Cuén and Rocha during a meeting, casting doubt on the official narrative surrounding Cuén's alleged shooting at a gas station. Cuén's political legacy is significant, having led the Sinaloa Party (PAS) for nearly two decades and fostering a close-knit relationship between the party and the university. His influence extended to various political figures, including his personal secretary, Robespierre Lizárraga, and his wife, who has served as a deputy. This interconnectedness has led to speculation about the nature of Cuén's relationships with local cartels, with some insiders suggesting that his ties to organized crime were well-known yet unproven. Despite the allegations of corruption within Cuén's circle, he had never faced prosecution. The Sinaloa Prosecutor’s Office, perceived as aligned with Governor Rocha, has accused Cuén's associates of mismanaging university resources. As the political landscape in Sinaloa remains uncertain, the implications of Cuén's arrest continue to reverberate, leaving many to ponder the future of both PAS and the university he once led.