Tijuana Mayor Ismael Burgueño Ruiz officially confirmed that he has requested a leave of absence from his post. The decision clears the way for him to register as a candidate in MORENA’s internal selection process for the governorship of Baja California.
Speaking at a press on Wednesday, June 17, Burgueño explained that the leave of absence is a procedural requirement to participate in the party’s upcoming poll to determine who will coordinate the defense of the Fourth Transformation in the state.
He added that a City Hall session has been scheduled for this weekend, during which the leave will be put to a formal vote. Should it be approved, Abdiel Gutiérrez is expected to be sworn in as the acting municipal president.
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The announcement comes just days before the statutory deadline for gubernatorial hopefuls to separate from their public roles ahead of the 2027 state elections. That cutoff falls on Sunday, June 21. T
The following day, on Monday, June 22, MORENA will officially open its registration period, and Burgueño is set to travel to Mexico City to formally submit his candidacy.
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During the press conference, the mayor also presented an official document indicating that prosecutors had declined to pursue criminal charges stemming from an anonymous complaint filed against him. He emphasized that the ruling clears him of any ongoing investigation by the Federal Attorney General’s Office and confirmed that he meets all eligibility requirements to run for governor.
Addressing concerns about his departure, Burgueño sought to reassure Tijuana residents, insisting that the city’s ongoing projects and commitments would not be neglected.
“Tijuana will remain in capable hands,” he stated, “and we will continue to deliver strong results in a responsible manner.”
