IZUCAR DE MATAMOROS, Mexico – The violence surrounding the upcoming local elections in Mexico’s central Puebla state has escalated with the recent killing of Jorge Huerta Cabrera, a candidate who was shot dead at a political rally just two days before the polls. This tragic event underscores the growing concern over the safety of candidates in what has been described as one of the most violent election seasons in the country’s history.
Cabrera’s assassination at the rally in Izucar de Matamoros was captured on video, revealing the chaos that ensued after the fatal shots were fired. The candidate’s wife and a colleague were also injured in the attack. This incident marks the latest in a series of targeted killings of political contenders in Mexico, with a total of 37 candidates now having been assassinated during the 2024 election season.
The surge in violence against candidates has raised alarm bells, with reports of 828 non-lethal attacks on candidates since the campaign period began. Drug cartels and organized crime groups have been implicated in many of these incidents, as they seek to exert influence over local governments by targeting politicians. The ongoing violence has prompted calls for stronger security measures to protect candidates and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Despite the risks faced by candidates, campaigning for Sunday’s elections has continued, with a focus on addressing the issue of cartel violence that plagues many regions of Mexico. The high murder rate in the country has become a central point of contention in the presidential contest, as the governing party faces criticism for its handling of security issues. The opposition has seized on the rampant violence to push for change and advocate for a different approach to tackling crime.
As Mexico prepares to elect a new president and thousands of local officials, the issue of security remains a top priority for voters. The outcome of the elections could have far-reaching implications for the country’s efforts to combat organized crime and ensure the safety of its citizens. With tensions running high and concerns mounting over the escalating violence, the election results will be closely watched both within Mexico and beyond.