What happens when frustration boils over in a country already grappling with violence? Mexico City found out this weekend.
At least 120 people — most of them police — were injured as huge crowds of mostly Gen Z protesters took to the streets.
They were calling out rising crime and President Claudia Sheinbaum’s security strategy.
Thousands marched, waving signs like “We are all Carlos Manzo.”
They honoured the Uruapan mayor who was assassinated earlier this month after urging tougher action against cartels.
Some protesters even tore down parts of the barrier protecting the National Palace, prompting police to fire tear gas.
Political Tensions Mount
Authorities say 20 people were arrested for robbery and assault.
Sheinbaum, however, insists these marches aren’t as organic as they look.
“People should know how this demonstration was organised so no one is used,” she warned, claiming right-wing politicians and online bots had helped fuel the protests.
Despite unrest, Sheinbaum still enjoys approval ratings north of 70%, with supporters praising her crackdown on fentanyl trafficking.
But critics argue she hasn’t done enough to tame cartel violence — and tensions abroad aren’t helping.
Peru recently declared her persona non grata after Mexico offered asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister facing coup-related charges.
So, the big question remains: can any leader calm a storm this fierce without igniting another?
