At the time of writing, there are 45 people dead. Only local solidarity has permitted survival for Hurrican Otis victims. Guerrero’s legacy of corruption has left them unable to respond without major federal help.
Mexican Army Takes Charge
Social media reports that the Mexican army has concentrated on clearing roads. In fact, this effort was what led to a presidential visit from Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Despite the high-profile visit, the event was certainly out of the norm for Mexico’s political elite.
Tone Def
Like in Colombia, Mexico recently held significant political elections at the mayoral and state level. Chilpancingo’s mayorship changed which could impact the future responses for such a disaster.
A local politician was criticized over reports that a few days after the hurricane she still celebrated her ascendence into her mayor position. However, equally incredulous is Mexico’s far right wing looking to stage a smear campaign against every rival political candidate.
One such post was looking to malign the help provided by the Mexican army and marines in the region:
In post after post on X, there are clips of the Mexican president altered with Gen AI. The campaign appears to be intended to rattle the electoral ambitions of Mexico’s current government.