A federal congressman, Benito Aguas, was tragically assassinated late on Monday in Veracruz, a Gulf Coast state plagued by rising political violence. The Veracruz attorney general’s office confirmed Aguas’ death in a statement shared on social media. Alongside Aguas, another man named Agustin Linares was found dead at the scene, and authorities are currently investigating the suspected murders.
Reports indicate that Aguas was shot multiple times in the mountainous municipality of Zongolica, located in central Veracruz. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his wounds at the scene. Ricardo Monreal, the leader of the lower house of Congress, expressed his trust in the investigation, emphasizing the need for justice in a post on social media.
Aguas, a member of Mexico’s Green Party, was part of the ruling coalition led by President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Morena Party. Sheinbaum, who assumed office in October, instructed security forces to collaborate with Veracruz’s governor to ensure a thorough investigation.
“This tragedy deeply saddens us,” Sheinbaum said during a press conference. “We will work tirelessly with local authorities to achieve justice.”
Mexico has been grappling with a surge in violence, with hundreds of deaths resulting from intra-cartel conflicts in western Sinaloa state. Gangs frequently clash over control of smuggling routes and criminal enterprises, exacerbating the country’s instability. Politicians have become prime targets, with numerous killings reported in the lead-up to the June general elections.
The recent murder of a mayor in Guerrero state days after taking office further fueled concerns about security. This incident has cast doubt on the effectiveness of Sheinbaum’s security policies, as her administration faces mounting pressure to address the country’s escalating violence.
As investigations into Aguas’ murder continue, the nation remains on edge, seeking solutions to a crisis that has threatened the fabric of Mexican democracy and stability.
