A shocking act of violence claimed the life of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, during public celebrations for the Day of the Dead on the night of October 28, 2023. Manzo, aged 40, was shot and killed in front of supporters in the city’s central square by two gunmen. This brazen assassination has sent shockwaves through Mexico and beyond.
The mayor had recently called for “brute force” to combat the violent drug cartels that have plagued the nation for years. His bold stance garnered attention and controversy, especially given the risks involved. Just weeks before his death, he expressed his determination to confront the threats head-on, stating, “I don’t want to be just another murdered mayor. But it is important not to let fear control us.”
Following the assassination, Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, condemned the act, expressing her condolences to Manzo’s family and the people of Uruapan. She shared her sentiments on social media platform X, stating, “I condemn in the strongest possible terms the vile assassination of the mayor of Uruapan.” Her comments reflect the broader outrage felt across the country, as Manzo’s death underscores the ongoing crisis of violence linked to organized crime.
In an analysis of the incident, security consultant David Saucedo characterized the killing as a “kamikaze attack,” highlighting the reckless nature of the assault amid a public event. This attack has further intensified discussions surrounding the effectiveness of current security measures in Mexico.
Manzo rose to prominence within political circles as a member of Sheinbaum’s Morena Party before declaring his independence. He was critical of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s “hugs not bullets” approach to dealing with drug cartels, advocating for a more aggressive stance. His calls for a tougher response to organized crime resonated with many citizens who have grown weary of the violence.
The mayor had been accompanied by national guard troops during the celebration, yet they were unable to prevent the tragic outcome. His assassination has prompted reactions from international figures as well. Christopher Landau, the US Deputy Secretary of State and former ambassador to Mexico, expressed his condolences, stating, “On this All Souls’ Day, my thoughts are with the family and friends of Carlos Manzo.” He added that the United States is prepared to enhance security cooperation with Mexico to combat organized crime.
As news of the assassination spread, protests erupted in Mexico City, where citizens demanded action against the cartels. Manzo’s death highlights the pervasive threat posed by organized crime in Mexico, where public officials often face significant risks due to their stance against drug trafficking organizations.
The killing of Carlos Manzo serves as a tragic reminder of the dangerous climate for public officials in Mexico. His legacy may inspire future leaders to confront the pervasive violence and advocate for change, even in the face of grave personal risk.
