Latest Politically Motivated Killing
A mayor in Mexico, Guillermo Torres, was shot dead at a restaurant in Morelia, Michoacan state. The attack also targeted his 14-year-old son, who survived the incident. Torres, who recently switched political allegiances, was elected mayor of Churumuco municipality in 2022.
Political Turmoil Ahead of Elections
As Mexico gears up for the upcoming presidential elections, violence targeting politicians has escalated. Two mayoral candidates were slain in February, and another mayoral candidate was killed last month in Guerrero.
Cartels Targeting Politicians
Drug cartels in Mexico frequently target mayors and candidates to exert influence over local authorities. Michoacan, a key region for avocado production, is plagued by violent clashes between organized crime groups, including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Mounting Death Toll
Electoral violence has claimed the lives of 50 individuals since June 2023, with 26 victims vying for political positions. The country has been grappling with a surge in drug-related violence, resulting in nearly 450,000 deaths since 2006.