The death of three journalists in the space of two weeks has pushed journalists all over Mexico on a nationwide protest.
The demonstrators are demanding for increased protection for journalist in the country despite a government program established to do just that.
Similar protests were also held in the states of Veracruz, San Luis Potosi, Durango and Nayarit. Reporters held up placards reading “Not one more journalist killed,” and “the truth can’t be killed.”
Photographers placed their cameras on the ground in protests, outside Mexico City’s National Palace, while candles were lit in tribute to those who had lost their lives.
Two journalists were killed in the border city of Tijuana in the first weeks of the year. Crime photographer Margarito Martinez was shot dead outside his home on January 17, while reporter Lourdes Maldonado Lopez was found dead by gunshot wounds in her car on Sunday.
The media advocacy group tweeted about the murder of Lopez, who was supposed to be “under state protection.” RSF called for “a rigorous investigation and to ensure the protection of her family.”
Jose Luis Gamboa was stabbed earlier this month in the state of Veracruz.
According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Gamboa had been a strong critic of local government corruption and officials with links to organized crime.
Mexico introduced a government protection plan for journalists since 2012. According to government figures, a little under 500 people are beneficiaries of this protection.
The two journalists murdered in Tijuana had reportedly both requested protection before they were killed. Martinez had received threats from someone with alleged links to criminals and had been waiting for protection.
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