Background on Claudia Sheinbaum
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is the current Head of Government of Mexico City, serving as the successor to former mayor Marcelo Ebrard. She is a prominent figure in Mexican politics, known for her work as Secretary of Environmental Affairs and Sustainable Development under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. As the Head of Government, she plays a crucial role in managing Mexico City’s affairs and ensuring the well-being of its residents.
Purpose of Barriers at National Palace
Claudia Sheinbaum explained that the metal barriers placed in front of Palacio Nacional aim to protect both the historical site and the safety of individuals amidst planned protests in Mexico City. She emphasized that the government respects the right to free assembly but clarified that the barriers are necessary to prevent violent acts and provocations from infiltrated groups.
Sheinbaum Pardo stated that the barriers are to protect lives and prevent violent activities from groups like the so-called "black block" or members of the teaching profession. https://twitter.com/hashtag/MexicoCity?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
— The Mexico City Times (@MexicoCityTimes) November 13, 2022
Planned Protests in Mexico City
CNTE and Gen Z Protests:
- CNTE: The National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) has called for blockades on November 13 and 14 in the Historic Center, starting from six in the morning.
- Gen Z: Young people from Generation Z have planned a march on November 15, departing from the Angel of Independence and heading towards Zocalo, Mexico City’s central square.
Sheinbaum Pardo highlighted the need for these measures to avoid incidents like those on May 21, when a CNTE group attempted to disrupt Ebrard’s morning press conference and journalists were reportedly attacked by supposed teachers.
Sheinbaum’s Response to CNTE and Gen Z
The Head of Government questioned the CNTE’s call to protest at Palacio Nacional, stating that there is ongoing dialogue with the Secretariat of Government, specifically with Section 22 of Oaxaca. She emphasized that there is no need for protesters to gather at the National Palace, as doors remain open for discussions and collaboration.
Regarding the Gen Z march, Sheinbaum Pardo warned about potential political opposition interference while reiterating her respect for young people’s right to protest.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the purpose of the barriers placed in front of Palacio Nacional?
- Q: Who are the groups planning protests in Mexico City?
- Q: Why did Claudia Sheinbaum question the CNTE’s call to protest at Palacio Nacional?
- Q: What concerns does Sheinbaum Pardo have regarding the Gen Z march?
A: The barriers aim to protect both the historical site and individuals from potential violent acts and provocations during planned protests.
A: The National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) and Generation Z are organizing separate protests in Mexico City.
A: Sheinbaum Pardo stated that there is ongoing dialogue with the Secretariat of Government, specifically with Section 22 of Oaxaca, and that there is no need for protesters to gather at the National Palace.
A: She warned about potential political opposition interference while reiterating her respect for young people’s right to protest.
