Controversial Playa del Carmen Name Change Sparks Outrage

Protests erupted in the streets of Chetumal over the approved name change of the municipality of Solidaridad to Playa del Carmen. Citizens voiced their displeasure directly to the Congress, with some even entering the Chamber to express their discontent.

The State Congress approved the name change despite the protests and disapproval of several residents present in the Chamber. These residents were eventually escorted out of the room due to constant interruptions and minor scuffles.

Approximately 40 residents marched through the city of Chetumal on Thursday, culminating their protest at the Congress. Here they expressed their opposition to the initiative to rename the municipality of Solidaridad to Playa del Carmen. A portion of the disgruntled group was allowed to attend the scheduled session, but were later removed due to their disruptive behavior.

One of the most criticized figures was deputy Filiberto Martínez, who was labeled a "culprit" by the critics present in the Plenary room.

When the session resumed, the legislators who voted in favor argued that the name change would enhance the tourist destination of Playa del Carmen. They also believed it would reaffirm the area's identity and benefit the residents. "The name change is much more than an administrative adjustment, it is a symbolic act that will bring great benefits to our community: the reaffirmation of our identity, economic strengthening and historical justice," declared deputy Paulina Rubio Tello.

Accusations that the legislators received payments to vote in favor were dismissed. Legislator Eric Arcila Arjona emphasized that there was no multi-million dollar business behind the decision. He clarified that the municipality would not have to make extraordinary expenditures for the name change, and that the transition would be done gradually.

The vote for the name change, which was attended by the mayor of Solidaridad, Estefanía Mercado, received unanimous approval.