At least nine people died when a stage collapsed during a political campaign rally in northern Mexico. Many others were injured.
- A stage fell in high winds at a rally for presidential candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez
- Maynez was not hurt, butย 9ย peopleย were killedย and dozens injured when the structure collapsed
- The incident happened during Mexico’s deadliest election campaign in modern history
Have you ever been to a rally or big event with a stage? Imagine if that stage suddenly fell with people on it – that’s what happened in Mexico. Let’s take a closer look.
Deadly Campaign Violence
Mexico is finishing up its elections after a highly violent campaign season. Many candidates have faced threats or been killed by powerful drug cartels trying to influence the voting.
Just this week, 12 bodies were found scattered across the city of Acapulco. That city has seen tons of murders lately due to violent drug gangs operating there.
“Even leaving my house, I could get killed”
“Of course I’m afraid,” said Cynthia Juarez, a local candidate whose friend was murdered. “I’m scared that one day I’ll leave my house and never come home.”
She’s taking a significant risk by running for office. But she says it’s “the only way we have to raise our voice” against the cartels.
Cartels Choose Some Candidates
In some areas, the drug gangs have decided who will win local elections by shooting candidates they don’t want. Voters in those places don’t get to pick their leaders – they have to choose whoever is left alive and approved by the cartels.
Both major political parties have had candidates killed, though the party currently in power has been targeted the most. But everyone in politics faces threats.
Endless Violence After Elections?
Even after these elections, most expect the violence just to keep going in places controlled by drug cartels. Some voters in Acapulco said they live in constant fear of being innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.
“We can’t go out without fear,” said Mercedes Sanchez, whose family members died in a hurricane months ago. “Even if you’re not looking for trouble, you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
So, while Mexico will soon vote for new leaders, the dangers for citizens and politicians likely won’t change. The powerful cartels don’t seem to be going anywhere.
Why Is This Happening?
Much of the violence relates to the massive demand for illegal drugs coming from the United States. As long as Americans keep buying drugs, Mexican gangs will fight brutal turf wars to supply them.
“For the drugs to be bought and sold, there must be supply and demand,” noted one politician running for senate. “So who’s consuming the drugs?”
The crisis seems to have no easy solution. Even modern political campaigns can’t escape the threats and deadly risks created by America’s insatiable demand for drugs.
What do you think Mexico should do to reduce the power of drug cartels and stop the killings of politicians and innocent people? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
