Supreme Court President’s Shoe Cleaning Sparks Power Dynamics Debate in Mexico
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A video circulating on social media depicting the President of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), Hugo Aguilar Ortiz, having his shoes cleaned by a high-ranking court official has ignited a national conversation about power, hierarchy, and appropriate conduct within Mexico’s judicial system. The incident, which occurred on February 5, 2026, prior to a ceremony commemorating the Promulgation of the Constitution of 1917 at the historic Theater of the Republic in Queretaro, has drawn criticism and prompted an explanation from Aguilar Ortiz.
The video quickly went viral, raising questions about the roles and expectations of individuals within the SCJN. The woman identified as cleaning Aguilar Ortiz’s shoes is Amanda Perez Bolaños, the General Director of Social Communication for the SCJN – a significant leadership position within the country’s highest court.
The Incident and Initial Reactions
Footage shows Aguilar Ortiz standing while Perez Bolaños kneels to clean one of his shoes, followed by another individual cleaning the second shoe. The scene unfolded in the vicinity of the official premises before the minister entered the event. Social media users were quick to express their disapproval, deeming the act inappropriate for a high-level official within an institutional setting.
A Career Communicator at the Center of the Controversy
Perez Bolaños assumed her current role in September 2025, responsible for the Court’s institutional communication strategy, media relations, and the dissemination of judicial activities. Her background includes a degree in International Relations from ITAM and prior experience in both the public and private sectors, specializing in strategic communication and political analysis. Her professional expertise centers on spokesperson duties, message coordination, and communication management during high-profile events.
Aguilar Ortiz’s Explanation
Hours after the video surfaced, Aguilar Ortiz offered a public explanation, stating the incident occurred following an accidental spill of coffee and cream on his shoe. He asserted that Perez Bolaños acted spontaneously to assist him and that he did not request her help. According to Aguilar Ortiz, he immediately asked her to stop when he realized what was happening, emphasizing there was no intention of preferential treatment or a display of superiority. He also issued an apology for the perception the incident created.
Broader Implications and Public Scrutiny
The episode garnered significant attention not only due to the gesture itself but also because of Perez Bolaños’s position within the SCJN. This occurred within a context where the Judiciary has publicly emphasized principles of austerity and equitable treatment. The dissemination of the video has once again brought the internal dynamics and symbols of power within official Mexican state functions under public scrutiny.
The incident also drew commentary from political figures. Reports indicate that prominent political analyst Salinas publicly criticized Aguilar Ortiz, calling on feminist voices within the Morena party to address what he characterized as machismo and misogyny reflected in the incident.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of symbolic gestures and their potential to ignite public debate, particularly within institutions striving for transparency and accountability.
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