Street vendors in Izamal, Yucatán, are denouncing what they describe as arbitrary evictions and harassment by municipal authorities, claiming their right to work is being violated.
Vendors Under Pressure
- Recent actions: Local entrepreneurs and street vendors report being forced to leave their selling spots in central Izamal.
- Authorities involved: Complaints focus on Vinicio Salazar, director of public spaces, who has allegedly ordered vendors to vacate areas near the palace and central streets.
- Long-time workers affected: One woman, who had sold food near the palace for over 20 years, was displaced because her stall “obstructed” painting work. Another ice cream vendor was nearly removed until public questioning forced officials to back down.
Allegations of Political Motives
- Political tension: Vendors believe the evictions are politically motivated, targeting those who are not aligned with the current administration led by Mayor Melissa Puga.
- Community reaction: Residents argue that vendors do not harm anyone and provide essential livelihoods, especially for families with limited resources.
Calls for Action
- Demands: Street vendors are urging Mayor Puga to intervene and stop what they call abuses of power.
- Rights at stake: They emphasize their status as citizens of Izamal with the right to work, warning that continued displacement threatens their survival.
The situation in Izamal highlights growing friction between local authorities and informal workers. As vendors face eviction from traditional selling spots, questions of fairness, political influence, and labor rights are intensifying. Without dialogue and transparency, the conflict risks deepening, leaving vulnerable workers caught between survival and municipal policy.
Source: Sol Yucatan
