Mexico’s Presidenta Claudia Sheinbaum announced the replacement of Armida Zúñiga Estrada as head of the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) with Víctor Hugo Borja Aburto. The decision, according to Sheinbaum, was made by the Secretary of Health, David Kershenobich.
New Leadership at Cofepris
Sheinbaum stated that Kershenobich made the decision regarding the leadership change at Cofepris, an institution responsible for approving health-related matters, including new medications and food products. No reason was given for Zúñiga Estrada’s removal, despite her recent appointment in October of 2024.
Borja Aburto, a surgeon with a doctorate in Epidemiology, assumed his new role yesterday. His prior experience includes working at the IMSS since 2001 and a brief tenure as head of the National Medical Coordination of the now-defunct Institute of Health for Well-being (INSABI) in March 2021, lasting eight months before returning to the Seguro Social in December of that year.
Past Controversy
In June 2021, Borja Aburto faced accusations from the civil association Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity regarding a $93 million contract awarded directly to Levanting Global Servicios LLC for the purchase of 2,500 ventilators intended for Covid-19 patients. The report alleges these ventilators were never delivered.
Following the non-delivery of the ventilators, the then-Secretary of Public Function imposed a 2 million peso fine on Levanting Global and barred the company from future contracts for three years and nine months, citing the submission of “false information.” The Public Prosecutor’s Office (FGR) opened an investigation into the matter in September 2020, case number FED/FECC/FECC-CDMX/0000246/2020.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Víctor Hugo Borja Aburto?
Víctor Hugo Borja Aburto is a medical surgeon with a doctorate in Epidemiology who most recently held a position at the IMSS. He previously served as head of the National Medical Coordination of the INSABI for eight months in 2021.
Why was Armida Zúñiga Estrada removed from Cofepris?
The source does not state a reason for Armida Zúñiga Estrada’s removal. Presidenta Sheinbaum indicated the decision was made by the Secretary of Health, David Kershenobich, but no further explanation was provided.
What is Cofepris responsible for?
Cofepris is the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks, and is responsible for approving all health-related matters in Mexico, including new medications and food products.
How might this leadership change impact the approval process for health products and regulations in Mexico?