Citlalli Hernández, secretary for Women, criticized Gerardo Fernández Noroña for his insensitive remarks toward Grecia Quiroz, widow of the murdered Carlos Manzo. Hernández urged men in politics to avoid misogynistic expressions in public debate. This came amid the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Citlalli Hernández Mora, head of the Secretariat for Women, voiced disagreement with Gerardo Fernández Noroña's comments targeting Grecia Quiroz, mayor of Uruapan, Michoacán. Hernández called for reflection on how men engage in public debate, particularly after the recent murder of Quiroz's husband, Carlos Manzo, in early November.
In statements to media, Hernández stressed the need for sensitivity: “Todos los hombres de todos los partidos políticos tienen mucho por hacer, por reconstruir, por repensar cómo seguir formando parte del debate público, pero sin que el machismo, la misoginia o alguna expresión que vulnere a las mujeres acompañe estos debates”. She directly referenced Noroña, known for his confrontational style, and suggested less offensive alternatives: “Desde el punto de vista público hay voces que señalan o que pudieran inferir que sus comentarios fueron poco sensibles. Al final estamos en el debate público y yo creo que podemos debatir, podemos decir lo mismo con expresiones menos ofensivas”.
The dispute arose when Noroña, in a social media broadcast, criticized Quiroz for demanding an investigation into Morena politicians Raúl Morón and Leonel Godoy for alleged ties to Manzo's homicide. The senator claimed Quiroz is eyeing the Michoacán governorship out of ambition: “La ambición ya se le despertó y va por la gubernatura de Michoacán, se los firmo. Va a ser candidata, pero de ahí a que nos gane hay un mar de distancia, pero es evidente que ella ya está en esa línea”. Noroña deemed Quiroz's accusations irresponsible and urged her to provide evidence to prosecutors.
Defending Quiroz, deputy Carlos Alejandro Bautista Tafolla noted she took office not through election but after the attack on Manzo at the Festival de las Velas on November 1: “¿Cómo te atreves a meterte con una víctima cuando no entiendes su dolor? No está ahí por elección… está ahí porque le arrebataron al amor de su vida”.
These exchanges underscore tensions within Morena ahead of the 2027 Michoacán elections, amid political violence.