In this April 11, 2016 file photo, Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto, right, and his wife Angelica Rivera de Pena greet students as they arrive to meet with Germany's President Joachim Gauck at Bellevue Palace in Berlin, Germany. Pena Nieto apologized on Monday, July 18, 2016 for a 2014 scandal involving a mansion his wife bought from a firm that won lucrative contracts with his administration. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn, File) (Source: AP)
MEXICO CITY (AP) – Mexico's president has apologized for a 2014 scandal involving a $7 million mansion his wife bought from a firm that won lucrative contracts with his administration.
President Enrique Peña Nieto had reacted crossly at the time to those who criticized the purchase. First Lady Angélica Rivera later returned the mansion, which she had been buying in installments. She claimed she was using money she earned during her career as an actress.
But on Monday, Peña Nieto said he understood why Mexicans would be angry about the apparent conflict of interest.
Peña Nieto said he was deeply sorry and asked Mexicans for their forgiveness.
Speaking at the presentation of a new anti-corruption law, Peña Nieto offered "my profound and sincere apology for the offense and indignation I caused."
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