A fresh controversy has erupted in Acatlán de Osorio’s local government, putting the administration of Mayor Guadalupe Bárcenas under intense scrutiny. On the night of Saturday, June 6, 2026, Uriel Paniagua Vargas—subdirector of Municipal Public Services and Bárcenas’s brother-in-law—was accused by residents of physically assaulting a man and firing gunshots during a confrontation.

According to witnesses, Paniagua Vargas allegedly struck one victim and then discharged a firearm. The incident also raised serious concerns about the local police’s response, with accusations of negligence and obstruction when victims tried to file formal complaints with the State Attorney General’s Office.

This episode comes just days after the Acatlán City Council voted on June 8, 2026, to request the State Congress to consider removing Mayor Bárcenas from office. The council’s move followed multiple allegations against her administration, including irregularities in public resource management, lack of transparency, nepotism, and difficulties accessing municipal financial information.

The timing of the accusations against a close relative of the mayor adds a politically charged layer to an already fragile situation. Community members and civil society groups are demanding that the investigation be handled impartially by state authorities to prevent any appearance of political shielding.

Mayor Bárcenas has denied all allegations against her, framing them as part of a politically motivated campaign by opponents. Yet, the new scandal intensifies pressure on her government, which is already navigating unprecedented political challenges in the Mixteca region of Puebla.

As victims push for justice and transparency, the key question remains: will authorities enforce the law equally, or will family ties influence the outcome?

For those interested, the video of the incident is available here: https://x.com/LaHoraMX/status/2064728371582361677/video/1

This case highlights the urgent need for accountability and fair governance in Acatlán de Osorio, especially as citizens demand a public administration that respects rights and operates without favoritism.