The Power Vacuum After El Mencho's Death
A significant power struggle has erupted within the Jalisco New Generation Cartel following the death of its notorious leader, Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as 'El Mencho'. The cartel boss was killed this weekend in the western state of Jalisco, Mexico, triggering widespread chaos and uncertainty about who will assume control of one of Mexico's most formidable criminal organizations.
Potential Successors in the Criminal Dynasty
With El Mencho's son, Ruben Oseguera Gonzalez, also known as 'El Menchito', currently incarcerated in an American prison, attention has shifted to other family members. El Mencho's other son and stepson are reportedly considered too inexperienced to lead the cartel, leaving a potential opening for female relatives to step into the leadership void.
Rosalinda González Valencia, El Mencho's 63-year-old ex-wife known as 'La Jefa' (The Boss), has emerged as a serious contender due to her extensive involvement in cartel operations. The couple, who divorced in 2018 but share three children, maintained professional connections within the criminal enterprise.
The Financial Brains Behind the Cartel
Valencia is believed to have served as the financial mastermind of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel for decades, specializing in sophisticated money laundering operations. She allegedly channeled illicit profits through shell companies and legitimate hospitality ventures, creating a complex web of financial obfuscation that protected the cartel's wealth.
Her criminal pedigree extends beyond her marriage to El Mencho. Valencia is the niece of 'El Maradona', the founder of the Milenio cartel that eventually splintered to form what is now known as the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The Daughter's Criminal Record and Potential Role
One of Valencia and El Mencho's children, Jessica Johanna Oseguera Gonzalez (known as 'La Negra'), has already established her own criminal credentials. She previously served time in prison for laundering money on behalf of the cartel, though both she and her mother have maintained lower profiles since their incarcerations.
Security analysts suggest that if Valencia and her daughter join forces, they could become some of the most powerful 'narco queens' in Mexico's criminal landscape. Their combined experience in financial operations and family connections position them uniquely in the current power vacuum.
Challenges to Female Leadership
Despite their qualifications, significant obstacles remain for female leadership within the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The organization has become known for its militarized structure and aggressive tactics, including attacks on military helicopters and pioneering use of explosive drones and mines in turf wars.
Mexico City-based security consultant David Saucedo told CNN that the cartel's next leader is more likely to emerge from among four or five top commanders rather than from the family's female members. The CJNG, formed in 2009, has developed a reputation for extreme violence and sophisticated weaponry that might resist female leadership traditionally.
The coming weeks will determine whether this criminal dynasty transitions to female leadership or whether established commanders will seize control of the cartel that has terrorized parts of Mexico with its brutal tactics and expanding influence.
