Background on the Mayor and His Political Affiliation
Salvador Bastida, the mayor of Tacámbaro in Michoacán, was tragically killed on Friday while receiving medical attention at a hospital after being shot. Bastida, 54, assumed office on September 1, 2024, following his victory in the elections as a candidate for the ruling party Morena, along with its allies, the Partido Verde (PVEM) and Partido del Trabajo (PT).
Details of the Assassination
- The attack occurred early Friday morning when Bastida was returning home in a vehicle accompanied by a state police officer acting as his escort.
- He was shot and injured, subsequently transported to a regional hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
Government Response and Context on Crime in Michoacán
The government of Michoacán strongly condemned the homicide and announced a joint operation with federal forces to apprehend those responsible.
Michoacán, a state on the Pacific coast, has been plagued by ongoing conflicts among criminal groups. Notable organizations include the powerful Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación and La Nueva Familia Michoacana, both designated as “terrorist organizations” by the U.S. government in February.
Recent events in the region include the death of six Mexican soldiers due to a landmine explosion and the subsequent arrest of ten former Colombian military personnel found in possession of explosives.
Historical Context of Violence in Michoacán
Since the controversial anti-drug military operation launched in 2006, Michoacán has experienced a surge in violence. The homicide rate tripled, reaching 24 per 100,000 inhabitants annually with around 30,000 cases. Moreover, there have been over 120,000 reported disappearances.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Salvador Bastida? Salvador Bastida was the mayor of Tacámbaro, Michoacán, who was tragically killed in a shooting on Friday.
- What was his political affiliation? Bastida was a candidate for the ruling party Morena, supported by its allies, Partido Verde (PVEM) and Partido del Trabajo (PT).
- What groups are involved in the ongoing conflicts in Michoacán? The region is marked by constant struggles between criminal organizations, including the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación and La Nueva Familia Michoacana, both labeled as “terrorist organizations” by the U.S. government.
- What recent events have further escalated violence in Michoacán? In the past, six soldiers died due to a landmine explosion, and ten former Colombian military personnel were arrested for possessing explosives.
- How has violence evolved in Michoacán since 2006? Following the controversial anti-drug military operation in 2006, Michoacán witnessed a dramatic increase in violence, with homicide rates tripling and over 120,000 reported disappearances.
