Post by : Rameen Ariff

A wave of protests engulfed Mexico on Saturday as thousands from the youth-led movement, identifying as “Generation Z,” filled the streets to voice their grievances over escalating violence, corruption, and insecurity. These demonstrations were ignited by the shocking assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo earlier this month—a tragedy that has reignited public frustration surrounding crime.

In Mexico City, tensions rapidly escalated when a small group of masked demonstrators dismantled metal barricades around the National Palace, the official residence of President Claudia Sheinbaum. Riot police retaliated with tear gas, resulting in chaotic clashes in the city’s historic center.

Pablo Vazquez, the city’s public safety secretary, reported during a press event that 100 police officers sustained injuries, with 40 requiring medical attention. Furthermore, 20 civilians were hurt, and law enforcement arrested 20 individuals while citing another 20 for administrative violations.

The discontent was felt beyond just the capital; protests erupted in several notable cities, including Michoacán, where anger remains palpable following the public killing of Mayor Carlos Manzo during a Day of the Dead event. In Uruapan and adjacent locations, demands for stronger governmental action echoed through the air, with chants proclaiming, “Carlos didn’t die; he was killed by the government.”

In Mexico City, frustration targeted the ruling party, Morena, as protesters rallied with shouts of “Out, Morena” while marching the streets, demanding accountability and systemic reforms.

The protests were organized by a group identifying themselves as “Generation Z Mexico.” In a widely circulated manifesto, they positioned themselves as non-partisan and representatives of young Mexicans disillusioned by the entrenched violence, misuse of power, and inadequate governmental responses. Although “Generation Z” generally includes those born between 1997 and 2012, the term has found international resonance with numerous youth-led protest initiatives advocating social and political change.

Nonetheless, the Sheinbaum administration has questioned the origins and intentions of the demonstrations, alleging involvement from right-leaning political adversaries and social media bots in amplifying the message.

Saturday’s protests reveal the mounting frustration within Mexico's younger population, who are increasingly vocal about the rising violence and the government's inability to address public safety. As emotions intensify and demands for reform grow stronger, these demonstrations signify another critical moment in Mexico's ongoing struggle against crime and corruption.

As investigations progress and political tensions mount, the influence of Generation Z's awakening may profoundly alter Mexico's social and political landscape in the forthcoming months.

#Global