A tragic incident occurred in Uruapan, Michoacán, on the evening of October 28, 2023, when Carlos Manzo, the 40-year-old mayor known for his outspoken stance against drug cartels, was shot and killed during the city’s annual Day of the Dead celebrations. The assassination unfolded in the central square, where Manzo was mingling with supporters when two gunmen opened fire, shocking those in attendance.
This brazen attack has drawn widespread condemnation. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her outrage on social media, stating, “I condemn in the strongest possible terms the vile assassination of the mayor of Uruapan, Carlos Manzo.” She extended her condolences to his family and the community, recognizing the profound loss felt across Uruapan.
Call for Action Against Cartels
Manzo gained prominence in politics for advocating a strong response to the violent drug cartels that have long plagued Mexico. His fiery rhetoric included a call for “brute force” against these criminal organizations, acknowledging the significant risks associated with his position. Just weeks before his death, he remarked, “I don’t want to be just another murdered mayor. But it is important not to let fear control us.”
Security consultant David Saucedo characterized the assassination as a “kamikaze attack,” highlighting the calculated nature of the violence. The incident has sparked outrage both in Mexico and abroad. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau shared his sympathies on social media, emphasizing the need for increased security cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico to combat organized crime.
Manzo, a former member of the Morena Party, had distanced himself from the political party and criticized former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador for his “hugs not bullets” strategy, which aimed to de-escalate violence through dialogue rather than force. The mayor’s assassination has raised further questions about the effectiveness of current strategies against rampant drug-related violence in the country.
Security Measures and Community Response
At the time of the attack, Manzo was accompanied by national guard troops, who were unable to prevent the shooting. The mayor’s death has left a significant impact on the local community of approximately 300,000 residents, who are grappling with the loss of a leader who dared to confront powerful criminal factions.
The assassination has not only resonated within Mexico but has also caught the attention of international observers, particularly as it occurred during a culturally significant period for the country. The Day of the Dead is traditionally a time for honoring deceased loved ones, and the violence that marred this celebration serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle against organized crime.
As Uruapan mourns the loss of Carlos Manzo, the incident underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the pervasive influence of drug cartels in Mexico and the safety of its public officials.
