Background on the Alicia and its Significance
The Multiforo Alicia, a historic underground venue in Mexico City, has been a cornerstone of the capital’s counterculture since its establishment in 1995. Originally a small venue on Cuauhtémoc Avenue, it evolved into an independent space hosting concerts by emerging rock bands and related genres, as well as book presentations and discussions. After facing difficulties in 2023 that led to its closure, the Alicia reopened in a new location within Santa María la Ribera colony in 2024.
The Controversial May 30th Incident
On the evening of Friday, May 30th, an over-the-top surprise operation involving 200 soldiers from the Mexican Army, National Guard, and the City of Mexico’s Security Secretariat descended upon a concert at the Alicia. The authorities forced the audience to evacuate and shut down the venue, citing a lack of a civil protection plan. However, no official search warrant or closure notice was presented, and no safety seals were placed on the premises.
Political Implications and Investigation
The incident raised suspicions of a political ploy. Clara Brugada, the head of the local government, distanced her administration from the operation. Morena supporters blamed Cuauhtémoc Alcaldesa Rojo de la Vega (PRI) for orchestrating the intervention. Roja de la Vega clarified that alcaldes lack the authority to request military or national guard involvement, which falls under federal jurisdiction and ultimately under Brugada’s control. An investigation ensued, with the case eventually reaching the Secretary of Defense.
During a June 10th press conference, the Secretary of Defense made confusing statements, implicating the Mexico City government in requesting the operation, thereby discrediting Brugada. A couple of officials were subsequently dismissed, seemingly bringing the matter to a close.
Suspicions and Brugada’s Inefficiency
The apparent intention behind the Alicia incident was to provoke attendees, instigate violence, and subsequently blame the alcaldesa. When the plan failed due to the audience’s composure, Brugada’s incompetence was exposed. Her admission of ignorance regarding the order’s source demonstrated a lack of command control and ultimately revealed a lie.
Brugada’s Governance: A Growing Concern
As days pass, Brugada’s inefficiency becomes increasingly apparent. Investigations into the murders of her close associates remain stagnant, traffic chaos worsens, potholes multiply, and violence/insecurity persist in certain neighborhoods. Meanwhile, her priorities seem misplaced, focusing on establishing the Guinness World Record for the largest rainbow LGBTQ+ flag.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Multiforo Alicia? The Multiforo Alicia is a historic countercultural venue in Mexico City that has hosted concerts, discussions, and book presentations since 1995.
- What happened during the May 30th incident? Authorities conducted a surprise operation at a concert in the Alicia, forcing attendees to evacuate without proper warrants or closure notices.
- Who was blamed for the incident? Morena supporters initially pointed fingers at Cuauhtémoc Alcaldesa Roja de la Vega (PRI), though investigations later implicated the Mexico City government.
- What are the concerns regarding Clara Brugada’s leadership? Brugada’s governance has been marked by stalled investigations, worsening traffic issues, unaddressed potholes, and rising violence/insecurity. Critics question her priorities, such as pursuing a Guinness World Record for the largest rainbow LGBTQ+ flag.
