Calls for justice after local mayor killed during festival
Assalamu alaikum. People in Michoacan are asking for justice after the mayor of Uruapan, a vocal opponent of organised crime, was shot during a public Day of the Dead festival.
Carlos Manzo, who had spoken out about the power of criminal groups, was shot in the historic centre on Saturday night and later died in hospital at the age of 40. A city council member and a bodyguard were also wounded. The attacker was reportedly killed at the scene.
Hundreds of residents dressed in black joined the funeral procession on Sunday to say their goodbyes and demand accountability. They called for justice and voiced anger at the ruling party.
Officials say the assailant fired multiple times and that the weapon was linked to clashes between rival criminal groups in the area. Authorities have said they will investigate all lines of inquiry and vowed there will be no impunity.
The national leader called an emergency meeting of her security cabinet and condemned the killing, promising that the state will use all its resources to restore peace and security. Local officials have said the mayor had been under protection since late 2024 and his security was recently reinforced, but the attackers took advantage of a vulnerable public event.
Uruapan, known for its avocado production, has become a target for organised crime because of the lucrative trade. Several other local politicians and journalists have been killed in the region in recent months and years.
May Allah grant the victim and his family patience and ease, and may He protect communities from violence. We ask for a thorough investigation so those responsible are held accountable.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news