The recent death of Bertha Gisela Gaytán, a mayoral candidate in Mexico, has once again brought attention to the issue of violence in the lead-up to the nationwide election on June 2. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador expressed his condolences to Gaytán’s family and condemned the violence that has targeted political candidates. Gaytán, who represented the left-wing Morena party, was shot dead shortly after launching her campaign in Celaya, northwest of Mexico City. The shooting, caught on social media video, resulted in multiple injuries and the death of city council candidate Adrián Guerrero.
The violence against political candidates in Mexico has been escalating, with at least 15 candidates killed since January, according to the Associated Press. Observers believe that organized crime and drug cartels are behind the threats, using intimidation, bribery, and corruption to influence the political system. Despite the prevalence of violence, police have yet to identify suspects in the shooting of Gaytán, and no arrests have been made. The governor of Guanajuato, where the shooting took place, has promised to seek justice for the killings and ensure the necessary protection for participants in the electoral process.
Gaytán’s death highlights the ongoing security concerns surrounding political campaigns in Mexico. The high homicide rate in Celaya and other parts of the country poses a significant threat to candidates running for office. In addition to Gaytán, other political candidates have been targeted in violent attacks, such as the two mayoral candidates shot in Maravatío in February. The upcoming election, which includes the presidential race, has raised fears of further violence as candidates vie for positions of power.
Despite the risks involved, candidates like Gaytán have pressed on with their campaigns, calling for increased security measures to protect themselves and their supporters. Gaytán had requested security assistance for her campaign prior to her death, acknowledging the potential dangers she faced as a candidate in a violence-plagued region. The issue of security protocols for political candidates has become a key concern in light of the escalating violence in Mexico’s political landscape.
As Mexico prepares for another crucial election, the safety and security of political candidates remain a major challenge. The wave of violence targeting candidates has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the ability of candidates to campaign freely without fear of reprisal. With the presidency at stake and tensions running high, the need for effective security measures and justice for victims of political violence has become a top priority for Mexican authorities. The tragic death of Bertha Gisela Gaytán serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to enter the political arena in Mexico.
