In Celaya, a city within Mexico’s central state of Guanajuato, mayoral candidate Gisela Gaytán suffered a fatal gun attack this Monday, leaving the community in shock.
Officials have confirmed her death, but no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Gaytán, who represents the ruling Morena party, was targeted in San Miguel Octopan shortly after a campaign rally concluded.
Eyewitnesses and videos shared on social media show her surrounded by supporters at the time of the attack, where she was shot and subsequently collapsed.
Guanajuato’s Governor, Diego Sinhue, has vehemently denounced the murder, vowing that this act of violence will not go unpunished.
The tragic incident in Celaya, resulting in the death of candidate Bertha Gisela Gaytán, has sparked widespread condemnation.
Authorities extended their deepest sympathies to the bereaved’s family and friends, stressing the need for a united government effort to ensure the security of all electoral participants.
This commitment to safety was articulated on the social media platform X, highlighting the collective resolve to address and prevent such heinous acts.
This incident unfolded just one day after the municipal campaign season kicked off in Guanajuato.
The state, known for its industrial and agricultural sectors, has faced increased criminal violence over the past five years.
Morena candidate for Celaya’s mayoralty
Gaytán was officially named the Morena candidate for Celaya’s mayoralty on February 29, ahead of the upcoming elections on June 2.
In these pivotal elections, voters will elect a new President, 128 senators, and 500 congressional deputies, alongside choosing nine governors in states such as Guanajuato.
The elections also involve local legislators and mayors nationwide, covering 1,612 mayoral and 972 state legislative seats.
Throughout her political career, Gaytán held various positions within Celaya’s Municipal Comptroller’s Office and the Secretariat of Welfare. She was also a state advisor for the Morena party.