PRI Leader Slams Mahahual’s Neglect and Crime Surge

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Cora Amalia Castilla Madrid, the state president of Mexico’s Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), has strongly criticized the deteriorating conditions in the tourist community of Mahahual, located in the Othón P. Blanco municipality. She called for immediate attention to the area’s infrastructure, sanitation, and security crises during a press statement.

Decaying Tourism and Sargassum Crisis

Castilla Madrid urged federal and state authorities, including President Claudia Sheinbaum and Governor Mara Lezama, to address Mahahual’s dire state. She blamed local Mayor Yensunni Idalia Martínez Hernández for neglecting the destination, particularly amid persistent sargassum invasions that have driven away tourists.

"Mahahual is a mess—I say this seriously—because the mayor hasn’t paid the slightest attention to the area. Right now, with the sargassum, the whole town reeks. The beaches are empty; people won’t even go near the water," Castilla Madrid stated.

Unofficial Curfews and Rising Crime

The PRI leader also highlighted escalating violence in southern Quintana Roo, where residents face extortion, robberies, and kidnappings. She described "unofficial curfews" in rural communities, where people avoid leaving their homes after 7 p.m. due to safety concerns.

"Public safety is collapsing. We need the full force of the state to restore order—this is unsustainable," she said. "Families are trapped in their homes by fear. The situation is grave and demands urgent action."

Poverty and Broken Promises

Castilla Madrid dismissed claims of reduced poverty in Quintana Roo, arguing that systemic failures in healthcare, education, and infrastructure negate any short-term economic aid.

"Poverty isn’t just about income. The health system is in ruins, the countryside is abandoned, tourism is collapsing without mixed-fund investments, and our roads are inadequate," she said. "A comprehensive evaluation is needed—these Band-Aid solutions don’t work."

Diplomatic Tensions with Belize

The PRI leader further called for improved relations with Belize, noting a breakdown in cross-border cooperation affecting Othón P. Blanco. "The relationship is nonexistent now. It must be rebuilt, especially for this region," she concluded.

The remarks come as President Sheinbaum visits southern Quintana Roo, where local leaders hope to draw federal attention to the area’s crises.