Claudia Sheinbaum is widely expected to become Mexico's first female president
The top contenders in the Mexican presidential race concluded their last campaign rallies preceding the upcoming Sunday vote.
Claudia Sheinbaum, a trusted associate of the current left-wing president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and Xóchitl Gálvez, a former senator representing the nation's primary center-right party, are the leading contenders.
It's highly probable that either Claudia Sheinbaum or Xóchitl Gálvez will secure the position as Mexico's inaugural female leader.
Ms. Sheinbaum, widely regarded as the frontrunner, addressed a gathering in Mexico City's iconic Zócalo Square, asserting that Mexico has experienced significant positive transformation since President Obrador's election in 2018. "I am committed to leading Mexico towards a future marked by peace, security, democracy, freedom, and justice," she affirmed. Her opponent, Ms. Gálvez, who has voiced concerns over the escalation of organized crime under President Obrador's tenure, held her final campaign event in the northern city of Monterrey.
"I assure you, you'll have the most courageous president," she declared. "I'll safeguard your families, shield your sons, and watch over your daughters. Remember that." In addition to selecting the next president, voters will also vote for numerous congressional representatives and thousands of local officials nationwide.
This election cycle has been marked by unprecedented violence, with approximately 200 public servants, politicians, and candidates assassinated to date. The incoming president will inherit the challenge of revitalizing a stagnant economy, combating escalating violence, and managing the ongoing influx of migrants crossing Mexico en route to the United States.
Thousands of supporters gathered in Mexico City's central Zócalo Square to hear Ms Sheinbaum speak
Challenger Xóchitl Gálvez held her closing event in the northern city of Monterrey
Source: BBC