MEXICO CITY — During the current Mexican president’s administration of less than two years, Tucson has had three Mexican consuls. The third one was appointed after a controversial removal of his predecessor. 

Earlier this year, Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard announced the demotion of Guillermo Rivera as consul in Tucson after just a few months.

Rivera faced an investigation for attacking the press and promoting the Mexican president’s party. Mexican law bars diplomats from showing any political affiliation.

In December last year, Rivera had been investigated by journalist Dolia Estévez. The diplomat is allegedly a loyalist to the president’s party, holding partisan meetings at his office. 

Estévez said the former consul tried to start a smear campaign against her. Her allegations were backed by Article 19, an international organization defending the press. 

The newly appointed consul is Rafael Barceló, who was a staff member for the embassies of Mexico in Brazil and Costa Rica. Barceló is a lawyer and has also worked in diplomatic affairs related to human rights.

Other cities in the U.S. with new Mexican consuls are Portland, Oregon; San Bernardino, California; Las Vegas; and Del Río, Texas.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs says the diplomats will contribute to the government’s goal to protect Mexicans overseas.