Massive Protests Erupt in Mexico Over Rising Violence and Government Response

Sun Nov 16 2025 04:14:11 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Thousands took to the streets of Mexico City, driven by recent violence and dissatisfaction with President Claudia Sheinbaum's handling of crime. This historic march highlighted growing unrest among citizens and calls for greater government accountability.

In a significant display of discontent, thousands of protesters marched in Mexico City, fueled by frustration over escalating violence and the recent assassination of local officials. The events are seen as a response to President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration amidst claims of political manipulation behind the demonstrations. With increasing public outcry against cartel influence and government inaction, unrest is intensifying across the nation.

Thousands of demonstrators marched in Mexico City to protest against violent crime and President Claudia Sheinbaum's government.

The rally was organised by Gen Z youth groups, drawing support from citizens protesting high-profile killings, including the assassination just weeks ago of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo - who had called for tough action against cartels.

President Sheinbaum said the marches, which took place in other cities, had been funded by right-wing politicians who oppose her government.

On Saturday demonstrators dismantled parts of a barrier protecting the National Palace, where Sheinbaum lives. Police protecting the compound used tear gas on the crowds.

Some protesters paid tribute to Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo. He was shot on 1 November while he attended a Day of the Dead festival and was known for speaking openly about drug-trafficking gangs in his town and cartel violence.

Protesters waved banners with messages such as We are all Carlos Manzo, while others wore cowboy hats in tribute to him.

While President Sheinbaum has been acting against cartels, she has resisted calls for another all-out war on drugs, fearing repeat of past failures. Days before the march, she accused online platforms of promoting the protests with fake accounts, asserting that the demonstrations had ulterior political motives.

Sheinbaum, maintaining approval ratings above 70% in her first year, is facing escalating criticism over her handling of violence and diminishing public safety, especially in the wake of recent diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries over her administration's decisions.