Last Sunday, a massive gathering was held in the capital's Zócalo convened by President Claudia Sheinbaum in response to the imposition of tariffs by Donald Trump on Mexican exports. This call generated controversy, as some considered it more focused on satisfying vanities than intimidating the President of the United States.
After the executive order imposing a 25 percent tariff was signed, Sheinbaum called for this demonstration to announce the measures that Mexico would take in response to this aggression. However, the relevance and effectiveness of such acts have been questioned, as it is believed that they fail to deceive public opinion, especially those who know the ins and outs of organizing these events.
In this regard, the similarity of these massive gatherings to the historical act of ballot-box stuffing described by Fernando del Paso in his novel is noted, where it recounts how during the French intervention in Mexico, farmers were hired to simulate popular support for the invaders. This practice, dating back more than a century and a half, continues to raise questions about its utility and its high cost to public finances.
The necessity of carrying out such acts is questioned, which although they may have some media impact, are costly and lack authenticity. Furthermore, it is mentioned that opposition governors are forced to participate in these demonstrations out of fear of reprisals, highlighting the political pressure surrounding these types of events.
In conclusion, a reflection is raised on the relevance of continuing to hold such massive calls, which not only prove burdensome for the state but also raise doubts about their effectiveness and truthfulness. The tradition of ballot-box stuffing, inherited from previous governments, continues to be a topic of debate today.
