Tens of thousands of demonstrators, largely from the Gen Z generation, flooded the streets around the National Palace in Mexico City on Saturday.
Their message was clear: frustration with corruption, cartel violence, and economic stagnation is reaching a boiling point.
Marching Against Government Inaction
The march, which began earlier in the day, was organized by youth activists and supported by older opposition supporters.
Protesters called for President Claudia Sheinbaum’s resignation, voicing anger at what they see as the government’s failure to control crime and provide opportunities for citizens.
Clashes with Police Turn Chaotic
As protesters tried to push past police barricades around the palace, authorities responded with tear gas.
Chaos erupted as people ran in all directions, and clashes between citizens and police continued for hours before order was restored.
Arrests and Injuries Mount
Mexico City’s police chief, Pablo Vazquez, reported that 20 people were arrested on charges including battery, assault, and robbery.
Police also suffered injuries, with 60 officers hurt and 40 hospitalized.
The violence underscored the deep tension between the public and law enforcement.
Mourning a Mayor and Rallying Against Crime
Many protesters carried straw hats in memory of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of a western Mexican town assassinated on November 1.
Manzo, known for taking a tough stance against organized crime, became a symbol for those demanding stronger action against cartels.
“The state is dying,” said Rosa Maria Avila, 65, who traveled from Michoacan to join the demonstration.
“He was killed because he confronted the delinquents.
He had the guts to fight for justice.”
Comparisons to Global Youth Movements
Saturday’s protest is the largest to target Sheinbaum so far.
Observers have drawn parallels between this Gen Z-led demonstration and movements in countries like Nepal and Madagascar, where youth activism led to significant political change.
A Divided Public
While Sheinbaum maintains a high overall approval rating, a portion of the population is expressing growing disillusionment.
Giovanna Agundez, 32, told Bloomberg, “Don’t they always claim to be different? Right now, I feel powerless.”
Sheinbaum Responds from Afar
At the time of the protest, Sheinbaum was nearly 600 miles away in Campeche.
Posting on X, she thanked supporters in Palizada and emphasized her commitment to a government “at the people’s service.” She has since condemned the violence in Mexico City.
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