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Fierce Unrest Erupts in Mexico as Massive Protests Leave More Than 100 Injured
At least 120 people, including 100 police officers, were injured during large anti-government demonstrations in Mexico City, according to police reports. Thousands of protesters filled the streets on Saturday to voice frustration over violent crime and Mexico’s current administration under President Claudia Sheinbaum. Demonstrations also occurred in other cities, creating a nationwide moment of unrest centered on public safety concerns and political dissatisfaction. President Sheinbaum stated that the marches were funded by right-wing political figures who oppose her government, adding a layer of political contention to the already intense atmosphere.
Anger Fueled by High-Profile Killings
The rally was organized by Gen Z youth groups and gained momentum from widespread concern over recent high-profile killings, including the assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo only weeks earlier. Manzo, who had publicly urged stronger action against cartels, was shot on 1 November while attending a Day of the Dead festival. He had been known for speaking openly about drug-trafficking groups and the violence affecting his town, becoming a figure many citizens connected with in the fight against cartel influence. Demonstrators carried banners reading “We are all Carlos Manzo” and some wore cowboy hats in his honor, signaling solidarity with his stance against organized crime and his calls for firm action against armed cartel elements.
Escalation at the National Palace
Photo Credit: Drini (Pedro Sánchez) Via Wikimedia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
Crowds dismantled parts of a protective barrier surrounding the National Palace, where Sheinbaum resides, prompting police officers guarding the compound to deploy tear gas in an effort to control the situation. Mexico City security chief Pablo Vazquez reported that 20 individuals were arrested on charges including robbery and assault. The confrontation highlighted the growing tension between demonstrators and authorities, with the National Palace becoming a focal point for expressions of public frustration.
Political Backdrop and Government Response
President Sheinbaum has taken measures targeting cartel activity but has declined demands for a renewed full-scale war on drugs, noting the significant bloodshed that accompanied similar strategies pursued by earlier administrations. Days before the protests, she claimed the event was being pushed by online bots, stating, “We agree with freedom of expression and freedom of demonstration if there are young people who have demands, but the issue here is who is promoting the demonstration,” adding, “People should know how this demonstration was organised so that no one is used.” Despite criticism surrounding her handling of national violence, Sheinbaum maintains approval ratings above 70% in her first year in office and has made progress against fentanyl trafficking, a priority for the United States under President Donald Trump.
International Strains Intensify
The unrest coincides with growing diplomatic strain in the region. Earlier this month, Peru’s Congress voted to declare Sheinbaum a persona non grata. The move came shortly after Peru cut diplomatic ties with Mexico following Mexico’s decision to grant asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister facing charges related to a 2022 coup attempt. The diplomatic dispute added international pressure to the domestic challenges currently facing Mexico’s government.
Fierce Unrest Erupts in Mexico
The demonstrations in Mexico City, marked by clashes, injuries, and politically charged accusations, reflect deep public concern over violence and governance. Rising tensions, fueled by high-profile killings and broader security challenges, continue to shape the national climate as both supporters and critics watch how the administration responds to growing unrest at home and diplomatic friction abroad.
