To Beat the Narcos, Mexico Must Put Security Before Politics
Tackling the country’s violence problem carries political risks. But President Claudia Sheinbaum can play a tough hand well by forging a better partnership with the US.
Incrementalism isn’t working.
Photographer: Zina Desmazes/AFP/Getty Images
Even in a country as accustomed to violence as Mexico, some vicious acts can still shake up society. The assassination of two of Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada’s close aides last week was one of them.
The shocking murders during the morning commute on one of the city’s busiest avenues were designed for maximum political impact. The authorities have been careful not to air any conjectures about who was responsible. But the attack makes very clear that Claudia Sheinbaum doesn’t have much room to continue soft-pedalling Mexico’s security challenge.