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Sunday 22/02/2026

Mexico Protests Turn Violent Amid Outcry Over Mayor's Assassination

Young protesters clashing with police at Mexico's National Palace
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Over 120 people, including 100 police officers, were injured in Mexico City protests against President Claudia Sheinbaum's government.
  • The protests, led by Gen Z groups, were sparked by the assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo, known for his anti-cartel stance.
  • Demonstrators dismantled barriers at the National Palace, prompting police to use tear gas; 20 arrests were made.
  • President Sheinbaum, who maintains high approval ratings, accused right-wing politicians of funding the protests.
  • The protests highlight ongoing tensions over drug cartel violence and political unrest in Mexico.

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Mexico City on Saturday, protesting against President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration in a rally that turned violent, leaving over 120 people injured. The protests, primarily organized by Gen Z youth groups, were fueled by the recent assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, who was a vocal critic of drug cartels.

Protests Sparked by High-Profile Killing

The assassination of Carlos Manzo on November 1st has ignited widespread anger. Known for his bold stance against drug trafficking gangs, Manzo was shot while attending a Day of the Dead festival. His death has become a rallying point for those demanding stronger action against cartel violence, a persistent issue in Mexico.

Clashes at the National Palace

As protesters gathered at the National Palace, where President Sheinbaum resides, tensions escalated. Demonstrators dismantled parts of the protective barriers, leading police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd. Mexico City security chief Pablo Vazquez reported that 100 police officers were among the injured, with 40 requiring hospital treatment. Authorities arrested 20 individuals on charges including robbery and assault.

Political Accusations and High Approval Ratings

President Sheinbaum, who has been in office since October 2024, accused right-wing politicians of orchestrating the protests, suggesting they were promoted by bots online. Despite the unrest, Sheinbaum retains approval ratings above 70%, bolstered by her efforts to tackle fentanyl trafficking, a significant concern for the United States.

A Broader Context of Political Unrest

The protests come amid broader political tensions, with Peru recently declaring Sheinbaum persona non grata following Mexico's decision to grant asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister. This diplomatic rift underscores the complex geopolitical landscape Sheinbaum navigates as she addresses domestic and international challenges.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The recent protests in Mexico City underscore the growing discontent with the government's handling of cartel violence and political unrest. As President Sheinbaum continues to face criticism, her administration may need to reassess its security strategies to address public concerns effectively. The involvement of Gen Z activists highlights a generational shift in political engagement, potentially influencing future policy directions. Internationally, Sheinbaum's diplomatic challenges, such as the fallout with Peru, could impact Mexico's foreign relations, necessitating careful navigation of geopolitical tensions.