Renewed questions over corruption in Mexico.
On January 15, a former leader of the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) and governor of Coahuila state (2005-11), Humberto Moreira, was arrested in Spain, over allegations of corruption, embezzlement and money-laundering. Deemed a flight risk and held without bail, he was released a week later after a local magistrate concluded that there were no grounds for prosecution. He returned to Mexico. Although the case was provisionally dismissed on February 9, Spain's Financial Crimes Unit subsequently requested it be reopened after they were provided with information from US authorities also investigating Moreira.
Investigations will centre on opposition politicians or 'priistas' deemed to be more a liability than an asset -- such as Veracruz's Duarte.
The case will worsen frustration with the government, as it suggests that the PRI is failing to boost accountability and the rule of law.
While the opposition will call publicly for greater transparency, parties may delay approval of any laws that could threaten their members.
