"They Want the International Headline to Be That Mexico Represses Teachers"; Sheinbaum Accuses Provocation Ahead of CNTE Marches

President Claudia Sheinbaum has accused certain groups of attempting to provoke the government into a confrontation with protesting teachers, aiming to generate an international headline that Mexico is repressing educators. Sheinbaum stated that her administration will not yield to such provocations.

"There will be a good inauguration and it is also guaranteed that there will be no repression," Sheinbaum said, emphasizing her government's commitment to ensuring both the right to demonstrate and the peaceful proceedings of the World Cup inauguration. She assured that these events could occur simultaneously.

Addressing concerns about the impact of protests and security cordons on merchants, Metro users, and visitors in the historic center, Sheinbaum defended the installation of metal barriers. She described them as a necessary preventive measure to avoid clashes between protesters and security personnel. "It is something we have to do to avoid any confrontation, because otherwise, the police themselves would have to prevent a situation, and it is better to have a barrier than a confrontation between police and protesters," she explained.

Sheinbaum also backed Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada Molina amidst criticism regarding disruptions from World Cup preparations and teacher mobilizations. The president praised Brugada's "extraordinary work," highlighting projects like the recently inaugurated new pedestrian causeway and ongoing rehabilitation efforts within the Metro system. She noted that Brugada is undertaking "in-depth work," encompassing not only station renovations but also essential maintenance of the Metro.