May 30, 2024
Mexico Elections: Two Mayoral Candidates Killed Days Before Voting
Two mayoral candidates in Mexico were killed in separate incidents just days before the country's general elections on June 6, 2024. The latest attacks bring the number of murdered candidates to at least 31 since September 2023, according to non-governmental organization Data Civica.
In Guerrero state, mayoral candidate Alfredo Cabrera was shot and killed during a campaign rally in Coyuca de Benitez. The attacker is still at large.
Cabrera's death follows the murder of Ricardo Arizmendi, another mayoral candidate in Morelos state on May 29, 2024. Arizmendi was shot and killed in Cuautla city while campaigning for mayor of the city.
Both candidates had no history of security incidents and had not requested protective measures from their respective state governments.
Violence has been a persistent issue during this election cycle, with at least 22 candidates murdered since September 2023, according to the Mexican government. The latest attacks have raised concerns about safety during the upcoming elections.
The Mexican government has deployed over 27,000 troops and national guard members to provide security during the elections. However, some opposition parties have accused the ruling government of not doing enough to ensure candidate safety.
In a statement on social media, Guerrero state governor Evelyn Salgado condemned Cabrera's murder and called for justice. She also promised to return funding to police forces and guarantee them wages of at least $1,200 per month.
Meanwhile, Xóchitl Galván, the sister of Alfredo Cabrera, described him as a
