A Mexican mayor who vocally opposed the country’s drug cartels was shot and killed during public celebrations on October 28, 2023. Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in Michoacán, was gunned down by two assailants in front of attendees celebrating the “Day of the Dead.” This shocking incident unfolded in the city’s central square, leaving many witnesses in disbelief.
President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the murder, calling it a “vile assassination.” On social media platform X, she expressed her condolences to Manzo’s family and the citizens of Uruapan, emphasizing the irreparable loss to the community. Security expert David Saucedo characterized the assassination as a “kamikaze attack,” highlighting its brazen nature.
Manzo, who was 40 years old, had garnered attention for his outspoken stance against the violent cartels that have plagued Mexico for years. He had previously stated, “I don’t want to be just another murdered mayor,” reflecting his awareness of the risks involved in his position. In a poignant remark made last month, he insisted that it was essential not to let fear dominate their actions.
The assassination triggered outrage not only in Mexico but also in Washington, D.C. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, a former ambassador to Mexico, offered his thoughts for Manzo’s family and friends, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to enhancing security cooperation with Mexico to combat organized crime. He shared a photograph of Manzo with his young son taken just moments before the tragic event, urging that his memory inspire decisive action against the cartels.
Manzo had risen through the political ranks with the Morena Party before declaring himself an independent candidate. He frequently criticized former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador‘s “hugs not bullets” strategy aimed at addressing the narcotrafficking crisis in Mexico. Elected to office in 2022, he was the son of a community activist and had been advocating for a tougher stance against the cartels.
Although Manzo was accompanied by national guard troops at the event, they were unable to prevent the attack. His assassination brings to light the ongoing struggle faced by public officials in Mexico who confront powerful criminal organizations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that accompany the fight against organized crime in the country.
As the investigation into the shooting unfolds, the community of Uruapan mourns the loss of a leader who dared to challenge the status quo. The implications of this tragedy extend beyond local boundaries, indicating the persistent violence that continues to affect many areas of Mexico.
