On May 3, the local election campaigns in Mexico had just begun. In district 12, Rodolfo Audelo is running for city council. Shortly after his election campaign started, he is threatened by an armed group – like several other politicians.
At least 36 politicians have been killed
At the same time, several candidates have been exposed to violence during the same period. A candidate was shot several times while working out in the gym. Another died after gunmen opened fire during her campaign rally. A third was walking along an open street with his followers when he was shot.
In total, around a dozen candidates and their families have been subjected to violent attacks. 31 candidates have been murdered since October, according to the Laboratotio Electoral think tank, and many others have dropped out of the election campaign after threats.
Fierce battles for power – among the gangs
Security analysts say the rising violence is due to local criminal groups and that a rift in Mexico’s organized crime syndicates has locked rival gangs in fierce battles for power.
In their quest for dominance, they have now turned to authorities, to gain control over society and terrorize those who live there.
Hear Rodolfo talk about the increasing violence in Mexico in the video above.