Youth-Led Protests Erupt in Mexico Over Violence and Crime

Sun Nov 16 2025 03:32:46 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Thousands of demonstrators take to the streets of Mexico City, critiquing President Claudia Sheinbaum's government amid rising violent crime and the assassination of local leaders.

In a powerful display of anger and frustration, thousands of young people marched in Mexico City against the government, protesting the rising tide of violent crime. The demonstrations were sparked by recent high-profile killings, including that of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. Protesters called for stronger action against drug cartels, while the President defended her administration against accusations of mishandling the situation, claiming that the protests were being manipulated by political opponents.

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.

Demonstrators waved banners stating, We are all Carlos Manzo, while some wore cowboy hats in tribute to him. Manzo was shot on November 1 while attending a Day of the Dead festival and was known for his outspoken views against drug-trafficking gangs.

While President Sheinbaum has taken steps against cartels, she resists calls for a renewed all-out war on drugs, citing the bloody outcomes of previous attempts by her predecessors.

Days before the march, Sheinbaum mentioned that the protests were being promoted online by bots, questioning the motives behind the demonstrations.

Despite her popularity and efforts to curb fentanyl trafficking, critics argue she has failed to address the escalating violence and faced criticism from international counterparts, including recent hostilities from Peru regarding asylum granted to a former prime minister.