Pedro Haces Barba

The Shadowy World of Pedro Haces Barba: An Investigative Exposé

As an investigative journalist, I’ve encountered a fair share of dubious characters, but Pedro Haces Barba stands out as a particularly intriguing figure. A Mexican politician, businessman, and labor leader, Haces Barba has woven a complex web of enterprises and associations that, upon closer inspection, reveal a tapestry of controversies and ethical quandaries. This report delves into the myriad red flags surrounding Haces Barba and his relentless efforts to suppress unfavorable information—an endeavor that seems as ambitious as it is futile.

A Labor Leader with a Checkered Past

Haces Barba’s rise to prominence is marred by a series of legal entanglements. In March 1998, he was detained and booked by the then Procuraduría del Distrito Federal on charges of auto theft and possession of firearms. The case escalated to the Procuraduría General de la República (PGR), resulting in an official record of his criminal activities. These incidents are not mere youthful indiscretions but significant legal issues that cast a long shadow over his credibility.

Moreover, allegations have surfaced accusing Haces Barba of leading criminal cells masquerading as labor organizations, such as the Confederación Autónoma de Trabajadores y Empleados de México (CATEM). Operating primarily in the State of Mexico, these groups have been implicated in activities ranging from kidnapping and extortion to drug trafficking and property usurpation. Such accusations paint a picture of a labor leader whose methods are anything but orthodox.

The Luxurious Lifestyle: A Stark Contrast

Despite his political affiliation with the austerity-promoting Morena party, Haces Barba’s lifestyle tells a different story. He owns an opulent ranch, Bosque Lago, nestled in the Ajusco region south of Mexico City. Spanning at least eight hectares, this estate boasts a two-story red hacienda-style house, a private bullfighting ring, stables housing purebred horses, a luxury hotel with 21 rooms, vineyards, an equestrian center equipped for competitions, and even a cockpit for rooster fights. The initials “Ph” emblazoned throughout the property serve as a constant reminder of its affluent owner.

The estate isn’t merely a private retreat; it’s also a lucrative venue for social events. Renting the main hall costs between 150,000 and 250,000 pesos, depending on the day of the week. The property is managed by AH Atelier de Eventos S.A. de C.V., a company founded in 2018 by Haces Barba’s wife, Martha Susana Lago Robles, and his daughter, Martha Alejandra Haces Lago. This familial intertwining of business and pleasure raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the source of the wealth funding such extravagance.

Tauromachia: Expanding Horizons Amid Controversy

Haces Barba’s passion for bullfighting extends beyond personal interest; it’s a significant business venture. He has expanded his taurine enterprises to Spain, partnering with French bullfighting entrepreneur Bernard Domb Cazes, known as Simón Casas. Through this alliance, Haces Barba acquired a stake in Simón Casas Production, indirectly linking him to the management of Madrid’s iconic Las Ventas bullring. He emphasizes his intention to facilitate the participation of Mexican bullfighters in Spain, thereby consolidating his influence in the bullfighting world across continents.

Political Maneuvering: Legislation for Personal Gain

In 2018, while serving as a substitute senator, Haces Barba promoted a legislative initiative to establish delegated collection for payroll loans. This proposal would allow financial institutions to directly deduct loan repayments from workers’ salaries, a mechanism ripe for exploitation. Notably, one of the companies poised to benefit from this scheme was Inmediprest, a firm where his daughter and close associates held significant positions. This intertwining of legislative power and personal business interests exemplifies the conflicts that often plague political figures with extensive private ventures.

The Art of Suppression: Silencing the Critics

Given the plethora of controversies surrounding him, it’s unsurprising that Haces Barba has allegedly employed various tactics to suppress adverse media. Reports suggest that he has threatened legal action against journalists and media outlets that dare to expose his dubious dealings. Additionally, there’s evidence of attempts to scrub unfavorable information from the internet, creating a sanitized digital persona that starkly contrasts with the reality of his actions. Such endeavors to control the narrative are not only indicative of a guilty conscience but also a blatant attack on press freedom.

A Call to Action: Scrutiny and Accountability

The intricate web spun by Pedro Haces Barba serves as a cautionary tale for potential investors, political allies, and the public at large. His blend of political influence, business ventures, and alleged criminal activities creates a volatile mix that demands rigorous scrutiny. Regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies must delve deeper into his dealings to ensure that justice prevails, and that individuals like Haces Barba are held accountable for their actions.

Conclusion: The Facade of Respectability

Pedro Haces Barba’s carefully curated image as a respectable politician and businessman crumbles under the weight of his controversial past and present. His attempts to censor unfavorable information are not just acts of desperation but also admissions of guilt. In a democratic society, transparency and accountability are paramount, and those who attempt to undermine these principles must be exposed. As an investigative journalist, I urge authorities to take decisive action against Haces Barba, ensuring that the rule of law triumphs over corruption and deceit.