Assassination of Uruapan Mayor Sparks Nationwide Protests in Mexico

The assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo on November 1, 2025, has ignited widespread protests across Mexico, highlighting deep-seated frustrations with escalating violence and perceived government inaction against organized crime.

Manzo, 40, was attending the Festival de las Velas—a traditional Day of the Dead celebration—in Uruapan's central plaza when he was fatally shot. The attack occurred around 8:10 p.m. CST while Manzo was with his family, engaging with residents and observing festival decorations. He was struck seven times, with three bullets hitting his back and abdomen; the latter wound proved fatal. Manzo was pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly after the attack. A city council member, Víctor Hugo de la Cruz, and a bodyguard were also injured during the incident.

The assailant, identified as 17-year-old Víctor Manuel Ubaldo Vidales, was killed by Manzo's security detail at the scene. Subsequent investigations revealed that the weapon used—a 9mm Beretta pistol—was linked to two other incidents resulting in three deaths and two injuries.

Carlos Manzo, born on April 9, 1985, in Uruapan, was a prominent Mexican politician known for his staunch stance against organized crime. He served as a federal deputy for the National Regeneration Movement (Morena) from 2021 to 2024. In 2024, he was elected as the municipal president (mayor) of Uruapan as an independent candidate. Manzo gained national attention for his zero-tolerance policy toward organized crime in Uruapan, leading to comparisons with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, though he rejected such comparisons.

Manzo's assassination triggered widespread outrage and a series of protests across Michoacán and other parts of Mexico.

• November 2, 2025: Thousands marched in Morelia, the state capital, demanding justice and enhanced security measures. Some protesters stormed the state government palace, resulting in property damage and clashes with police.

• November 3, 2025: Demonstrations spread to municipalities such as Pátzcuaro, Zitácuaro, and Apatzingán, where protesters also stormed local government buildings.

• November 7, 2025: A massive march in Uruapan drew between 70,000 and 80,000 participants demanding greater security and justice.

These protests reflect growing public frustration with escalating violence and perceived government inaction against organized crime in the region.

In the aftermath of the assassination, several arrests were made:

• November 20, 2025: Mexican authorities arrested Jorge Armando "N," also known as "El Licenciado," identified as one of the masterminds behind Manzo's killing. He is reportedly linked to a criminal group affiliated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

• November 21, 2025: Seven members of Manzo's security detail, who were active police officers, were arrested for their probable involvement in the assassination.

In response to the assassination and subsequent unrest, President Claudia Sheinbaum launched "Plan Michoacán," deploying over 10,500 security personnel to the state to combat gang violence and extortion. The plan also includes significant investments in social programs aimed at curbing organized crime.

The assassination of Mayor Manzo and the ensuing protests underscore the deep-seated issues of violence, corruption, and impunity in Mexico, particularly in regions plagued by cartel activity. The public's response highlights a demand for more effective government action against organized crime and greater accountability from public officials.

The killing of Mayor Carlos Manzo has become a catalyst for nationwide unrest, reflecting the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and addressing the pervasive influence of organized crime in Mexico.