A recent, tragic example underscores the depth of violence against elected officials in Mexico. Gunmen on a motorcycle killed the two senior staffers of Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada, who was elected this year. The attack occurred during the early hours of a Tuesday morning in the Moderna neighborhood. Ximena Guzmán, mayor Luis Rosadilla’s private secretary José Muñoz, mayor Luis Rosadilla’s adviser. It was happening on their way to work.
Perpetrated in retaliation for his pro-democracy stance, Mayor Brugada says the attack was a direct assault on him. Guzmán and Muñoz’s vehicle was intercepted by the assailants, resulting in their fatal deaths. This incident adds to the alarming trend of political violence in Mexico, where attacks on politicians have become increasingly common.
Mexico City mayor Clara Brugada said she was devastated by the loss of her fellow mayors.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones of Ximena Guzmán and José Muñoz,” – Clara Brugada
Brugada currently occupies the most powerful political office in the country below the office of president, which is currently held by Claudia Sheinbaum. She also highlighted her insistence on funding the investigation into this despicable act. Mexico City Mayor’s Office authorities and federal agencies are at the moment combing through pertinent surveillance footage. What they most want to know is who these gunmen are and why they targeted the journalists in this surprise attack.
Brugada in particular expresses a profound sense of mourning for Guzmán and Muñoz. He acknowledged them as veterans of the Morena party, Sheinbaum’s party of choice. The mayor promised to personally see to it that justice wins out in the wake of this first.
“We will get to the bottom of this situation and ensure justice is served,” – Claudia Sheinbaum
The ambush brings attention to a shocking pattern of political violence in Mexico. This was a staggering number for the country, which witnessed attacks on 661 people and political establishments last year. As violence towards public servants increases, officials are under greater pressure to keep these public servants safe and order restored.
