Yucatán faces political tension amid infrastructure and development issues

In Yucatán, political tensions are rising ahead of the 2027 elections. While the ruling administration focuses on using the “Las Dunas” real estate controversy in Chuburná Puerto as a campaign tool against the opposition, citizens in Mérida and surrounding municipalities are facing immediate domestic crises. Residents report frequent water shortages, power outages, and land conflicts.

The state administration faces growing criticism regarding the management of the Junta de Agua Potable y Alcantarillado de Yucatán (JAPAY), as water scarcity remains a primary concern for families.

Simultaneously, a public consultation has been initiated by the Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable (SDS) regarding a proposed commercial plaza in Xcanatún, north of Mérida. The project is being spearheaded by investors Luis Alfonso Rivero Molina and his sons. The application has drawn attention due to the familial connection between the investors and Jorge Ermilo Barrera Novelo, the head of the Yucatán Secretariat of Economy and Labor.