Thousands of demonstrators marched in Mexico City to protest against violent crime and President Claudia Sheinbaum's government. The rally was organised by Gen Z youth groups, drawing support from citizens protesting high-profile killings, including the assassination just weeks ago of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo - who had called for tough action against cartels. President Sheinbaum said the marches, which took place in other cities, had been funded by right-wing politicians who oppose her government. On Saturday demonstrators dismantled parts of a barrier protecting the National Palace, where Sheinbaum lives. Police protecting the compound used tear gas on the crowds.
Protesters waved banners with messages including We are all Carlos Manzo, while others wore cowboy hats in tribute. Manzo was shot on 1 November while attending a Day of the Dead festival. Known for his open criticism of drug-trafficking gangs and cartel violence, his assassination added to the outcry for government action.
Despite her administration's efforts against cartels, President Sheinbaum has refrained from declaring an all-out war on drugs, having seen the bloody legacies of previous attempts. She continues to maintain high approval ratings, yet criticism persists over her handling of escalating violence, especially following Peru's Congress declaring her a 'persona non grata' amidst diplomatic tensions.
Sheinbaum emphasized the right to protest but suggested that online bots were promoting the demonstrations, raising concerns about political motivations behind the discontent.
Protesters waved banners with messages including We are all Carlos Manzo, while others wore cowboy hats in tribute. Manzo was shot on 1 November while attending a Day of the Dead festival. Known for his open criticism of drug-trafficking gangs and cartel violence, his assassination added to the outcry for government action.
Despite her administration's efforts against cartels, President Sheinbaum has refrained from declaring an all-out war on drugs, having seen the bloody legacies of previous attempts. She continues to maintain high approval ratings, yet criticism persists over her handling of escalating violence, especially following Peru's Congress declaring her a 'persona non grata' amidst diplomatic tensions.
Sheinbaum emphasized the right to protest but suggested that online bots were promoting the demonstrations, raising concerns about political motivations behind the discontent.
