Iván López, PAN’s Candidate for Cosautlán Municipal Presidency, announced his withdrawal from the electoral race due to a series of threats against him and his family.
- López, originally from central Veracruz, reported receiving anonymous intimidation over recent days.
- Unknown individuals carried out acts of coercion at his parents’ home and vandalized his vehicle, prompting his decision to step away from the election process.
Despite understanding the risks associated with accepting a candidacy, López stated he would not endanger the safety of his loved ones or supporters. He expressed: “While this project may be one of the most significant in my life, I also value my emotional and physical well-being. I cannot put at risk the integrity and tranquility of mine and those who support me.”
First Public Case
This marks the first public instance of a candidate withdrawing from an election for a popularly-elected position in the upcoming polls for Durango and Veracruz, where 1,458 positions will be filled.
The “Vote Between Bullets” project by Data Cívica, Animal Político, and México Evalúa documented 130 violent acts against candidates during the previous electoral process (2023-2024), resulting in 34 fatalities.
“These have been the most violent elections on record,” stated Itzel Soto, coordinator of the project and Data Cívica member.
