In Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, the second Citizen Forum discussing the proposed name change of Solidaridad to Playa del Carmen was marked by a heated confrontation. The event, held at the Lázaro Cárdenas park dome in the Colosio neighborhood, saw a direct clash between Alderman José Luis Toledo "Chanito" and Municipal President Estefanía Mercado.
The conflict was initiated by Toledo, who arrived at the forum with a group of followers, causing a chaotic and tense atmosphere. Toledo has been known to spread misinformation about the name change initiative, despite his understanding of the project's implications from his time as a local legislator. His aim appears to be to generate resistance among the local population against the proposed change.
As City Secretary Luis Herrera was speaking, Toledo interrupted him, visibly upset. He then challenged Herrera and subsequently President Mercado, addressing her in a confrontational manner. Despite Toledo's aggressive approach, Mercado remained composed and responded to his provocations calmly, aiming to maintain a respectful environment at the forum.
However, the situation quickly escalated as Toledo's followers became more agitated, creating a tense atmosphere. The verbal clash soon turned physical, even involving members of the media. This led to attendees chanting for Toledo's removal from the event. Two more forums are planned to discuss the name change, one at the City Theater and another in Puerto Aventuras.
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