Body of Former Mexican Mayor Candidate Found Amid Rising Electoral Violence
Mexican authorities confirmed the discovery of Ramón Valencia’s body, a former candidate for mayor of Coxquihui, Veracruz, who was abducted by armed individuals just weeks after the June 1 elections, reports 24brussels.
The incident marks a grave escalation in electoral violence in the region. Valencia, who represented the ruling party Morena (National Regeneration Movement), lost the elections to opposition candidate Lauro Becerra of the National Action Party (PAN). His campaign was marred by tragedy, beginning with the murder of his father, Germán Anuar Valencia, in April.
On the same day Valencia’s death was confirmed, gunmen attacked Becerra’s home, resulting in one fatality. This attack highlights the perilous environment facing political figures in Veracruz, marked by kidnappings and violence during the electoral process.
Valencia was reported missing after being taken by armed men. Following his abduction, severed remains were discovered in Espinal, a neighboring municipality, which authorities confirmed belonged to him.
The case shines a disturbing light on the increasing electoral violence in Veracruz, where the ongoing elections for 212 mayoralties have been overshadowed by a series of violent incidents, including murders and threats. The climate of fear continues to challenge the integrity of the democratic process in the region.
