Political violence in Mexico: mayoral candidate shot dead at campaign rally

On May 11, a bloody incident in the municipality of Texistepec in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, once again brought the country's political violence to the forefront. During an election campaign, a politician and mayoral candidate, Yesenia Lara Gutierrez, was shot by unknown gunmen. Three other people died in the attack, along with the politician.

The deceased candidate was a member of Mexico's ruling party, the National Awakening Movement, and was expected to actively participate in the upcoming June 1 elections. At the same time, according to witnesses and local sources, the attack was carried out very quickly and violently - armed individuals suddenly attacked the rally area and shot several people in a matter of seconds.

Government officials have not yet revealed the motive for the attack

President Claudia Sheinbaum stressed at a press conference on May 12 that the exact motive for the attack had not yet been determined. He said that work is underway to coordinate investigations between the government and local authorities.

The problem of political violence is growing

This year, political competition in Mexico, especially at the municipal level, is not limited to political confrontation. According to the human rights organization Data Civica, 661 incidents of politically motivated violence were recorded in 2024 alone, most of which targeted candidates and officials at the local level.

This situation indicates that the electoral process in Mexico is taking a dangerous turn. International observers and human rights organizations are assessing this situation as a serious threat and are demanding that the government take firm measures to ensure the security of the electoral process.

The Zamin.uz editorial team wishes the Mexican people peace, political justice, and a safe electoral process. Such incidents should not seriously damage the country's democracy and the climate of trust in society.