Municipal administration controversies in Progreso

The municipal administration in Progreso, Yucatán, has faced several controversies involving administrative decisions and personnel conduct.

In early August, Mayor Erik Rihani González issued a 60-day deadline for owners of over 3,000 vehicles in the city’s impound lot to prove ownership and settle outstanding fines and fees. Failure to comply will result in the vehicles being transferred to municipal assets for auction. Concurrently, residents accused the administration of withholding diesel fuel intended for municipal transport units used for urgent travel and health needs.

Later in the month, the Progreso City Council suspended two municipal employees without pay following a violent street fight involving the director of Prolimpia, David Escalante, and an employee from the Municipal System of Potable Water and Sewerage (SMAPAP). The altercation reportedly began when Escalante confronted a citizen; the citizen claimed he acted in self-defense against threats involving a firearm. An administrative investigation is currently underway to determine legal responsibilities.