Statements by Senator Gerardo Fernández Noroña have once again ignited political controversy in Michoacán, after he publicly accused the newly appointed interim mayor of Uruapan, Maribel Quiroz—widow of the murdered mayor Carlos Manzo—of adopting a “far-right, fascist position.”
In a message that quickly generated outrage and criticism, Noroña stated: “I maintain — I insist — that Mayor Quiroz of Uruapan has decided to adopt a far-right, fascist position, and that a sudden ambition has led her to seek the governorship of Michoacán. But our movement will maintain the government of Michoacán.”
Criticism for attacking a woman who assumes office after a political assassination
The comment was described by analysts and opposition figures as a display of insensitivity and political irresponsibility, given that Quiroz assumed the mayoralty just weeks after the murder of her husband—an assassination still under investigation and one that has deepened Uruapan’s security crisis.
Citizen voices and specialists noted that instead of questioning her ideology or supposed political ambitions, Noroña should acknowledge the violent context in which the mayor took office and avoid rhetoric that further polarizes local politics.
Baseless accusations and a partisan narrative
According to political observers, the senator appears to be using this rhetoric to reinforce his movement’s narrative, seeking to discredit any figure who may represent a political alternative in Michoacán. So far, there is no public evidence supporting the claim that Quiroz is seeking the governorship.
A region battered by violence
The assassination of Carlos Manzo and the rise of his widow to power have once again exposed the institutional fragility of the region. For that reason, Noroña’s comments were interpreted as an irresponsible distraction and an attempt to politically capitalize on a tragedy that continues to impact the community of Uruapan.
Meanwhile, Mayor Quiroz has not responded to the accusations, focusing instead on the urgent security and governance challenges the city faces in the aftermath of the killing.
