Three of the last six former presidents of Mexico have resumed professional activities, whether in academia, business, or as speakers. In contrast, three former presidents have decided not to work: Enrique Peña Nieto, Carlos Salinas de Gortari, and Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
Since leaving office in 2024, López Obrador has disappeared from the public eye, stating that he would retire to his ranch in Palenque, Chiapas. However, his sudden disappearance has caused doubts and rumors.
In the United States, there is an open investigation against him for alleged alliances with drug cartels. This coincides with the fact that his six-year term has been the bloodiest in the country's contemporary history.
Although AMLO promised not to live off public funds or enjoy privileges, it is unclear what he currently lives on. He doesn't work, give lectures, write books, or participate in academic or social projects.
Unlike him, other former leaders have sought to remain professionally active without hiding.
These former presidents work after their term
Ernesto Zedillo, president between 1994 and 2000, leads the Program for the Study of Globalization at Yale University and is a professor at the same institution. His academic work is recognized internationally.
Vicente Fox (2000–2006), a member of the PAN party, promoted the Fox Center in Guanajuato, a multidisciplinary space for events, and has ventured into the legal cannabis market. Although controversial, at least he has shown entrepreneurial initiative.
Felipe Calderón (2006–2012), in addition to participating in international conferences, is a consultant on public policy, security, and the environment. He is also the honorary president of the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, and teaches at IE University in Spain.
The PRI members Salinas de Gortari and Peña Nieto leave doubts about their lifestyle
In contrast, Enrique Peña Nieto (2012–2018) has maintained a low profile. He has been seen traveling in Spain and Egypt, but he is not known to have any formal occupation. Additionally, he faces investigations for money laundering, illicit enrichment, and irregular transfers.
Carlos Salinas de Gortari stated in a podcast that he is unemployed and dedicates himself to "historical reflection". He is one of the presidents most questioned for corruption and privatizations to suit his interests.
The irony is not lost: López Obrador based his political career on denouncing Salinas as the "father of modern inequality" and a symbol of neoliberal corruption.
However, he has followed exactly in his footsteps, retiring without providing clear accountability and without showing any occupation.
Mexico deserves to know what a former president who promised transparency and austerity lives on. The opacity, silence, and accusations against him strongly contrast with the discourse he used for years to gain power.
