Anti-government protest in Mexico City organized by 'Generation Z' ends in clashes at Zócalo

Thousands of people gathered in Mexico City on Saturday for a major anti-government demonstration dubbed the "Generación Z" protest, which culminated in clashes between masked youths and police at the Zócalo central square.

The demonstration, described as the first significant mobilization against the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum, began its route from the Ángel de la Independencia monument and proceeded toward the Zócalo, located directly in front of the National Palace, the seat of the federal executive branch.

While the march drew thousands of Mexicans of various ages, reports indicated that the demographic composition skewed older, with most attendees surpassing 30 years of age, making the headliner Generation Z participants a distinct minority.

The day remained largely peaceful until the final stage at the Zócalo. It was there that the atmosphere shifted, as a contingent of young, hooded individuals began launching projectiles, including stones and bottles, at the National Palace. The palace had been heavily fortified with barriers in anticipation of the protest. The masked individuals clashed with police after successfully tearing down some of the protective fences.

The protest was highly symbolic. Many participants adopted the distinctive white attire and hats associated with Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. Among the banners carried were white flags, flags featuring characters from the anime One Piece, and Mexican national flags where the traditional coat of arms had been replaced by an image of Manzo's face.

Political slogans were prominent throughout the march. Demonstrators repeatedly demanded that the ruling Morena party step down, along with insults directed at the President and the rallying cry, "we are not artificial intelligence."