Mexico Erupts! Gen Z Mobilizes Nationwide After the Assassination of Mayor Carlos Manzo

Photo: EPA Images

On 15 November 2025, Large-scale demonstrations erupted across Mexico as thousands of young people and citizens joined the movement known as “Generation Z” to protest rising crime, systemic corruption, and widespread impunity. Rallies were reported from Tijuana in the north to Oaxaca in the south, marking one of the most coordinated nationwide youth-led protests in recent years.

The unrest was triggered by the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in Michoacán, who was shot dead on 1 November during the Day of the Dead festivities. Manzo was widely recognized for his outspoken stance against drug cartels and organized criminal networks, making him a high-profile target in the region.

Protesters raise their hats during a demonstration against insecurity and corruption in the country, as well as over the recent killing of Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez

A protester holds a placard during a demonstration against insecurity and corruption in the country, as well as over the recent killing of Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez

Protesters carried banners, chanted slogans, and wore straw hats associated with Manzo’s political base. Many demanded accountabilities from security forces, with chants such as “This is how you should have protected Carlos Manzo,” while others voiced harsher accusations, shouting “Carlos didn’t die, the government killed him,” reflecting deep public distrust toward state institutions.

Many of the demonstrators waved flags with the pirate skull symbol associated with recent gen Z protests. / Anadolu/Getty Images

The organizing group, known as Generation Z Mexico, released a public statement asserting its non-partisan identity and emphasizing that the movement represents young Mexicans frustrated by state abuses, corruption, and relentless violence. Some demonstrators carried pirate-flag symbols, which have become an emblem of youth-led protest movements worldwide, echoing earlier Gen Z uprisings in Madagascar and Nepal that resulted in significant political shifts.

In the days leading up to the rallies, President Claudia Sheinbaum questioned the authenticity of the movement, alleging possible interference from right-wing political groups and foreign actors. She described the mobilization as “inorganic” and suggested that “bots” were used to amplify support on social media. Similar concerns were expressed by AJ+ journalist Monica Cruz, who noted that youth turnout appeared smaller than previous demonstrations in Mexico City.

Although the march at Mexico City’s Zócalo remained peaceful for several hours, tensions escalated when a small group of hooded protesters began dismantling the metal barriers surrounding the National Palace. This sparked violent clashes between protesters and riot police. Demonstrators hurled stones and objects at officers, while police responded with tear gas and fire extinguishers. Local media reported incidents of police beating protesters and a photojournalist who had fallen to the ground.

The confrontation left at least 120 people injured, including 100 police officers, 40 of whom required hospitalization. Another 20 protesters were also reported injured. Authorities detained 20 individuals on charges including assault and theft.

President Sheinbaum condemned the violence, stating that the government "rejects all forms of violence" and attributed the unrest to a small number of “radical protesters.” Officials emphasized that the demonstration had proceeded peacefully for hours before the situation escalated.

Despite maintaining an approval rating above 70% during her first year in office since October 2024, Sheinbaum continues to face mounting criticism over security challenges, particularly the killing of political figures such as Manzo. Her administration has resisted calls for an all-out war on drug cartels, citing the bloody outcomes of past crackdowns. Internationally, she is also contending with diplomatic tensions, including a recent decision by Peru’s Congress to declare her persona non grata.

Source: The Guardian, Reuters

Copywriter: Siam Associated Press (SAP) Editorial Department
Pictures: Some illustrations come from the Internet. If there is any infringement, please contact us to delete it.
Source of material: official media /online news