Blockade in Bolaños Impedes the Transit of Wixarika Communities
Since Sunday night, reports have indicated a blockade on the highway connecting the municipal seat of Bolaños with the community of Tuxpan, specifically at the intersection known as "Miguelón." This action has halted vehicular traffic—including passenger buses transporting members of Wixárika communities—traveling to or arriving from Mesa del Tirador, Tuxpan, and other locations.
These events unfold against a backdrop of social tension following the approval, last Thursday, of a decree by the 64th Legislature of the Jalisco Congress. This decree authorizes a change in the municipal governance regime, shifting from the political party system to the "uses and customs" system—a traditional governance model within Wixárika communities.
In the wake of this legislative decision, various protests have been staged by members of the *mestizo* (mixed-heritage) population. In the days leading up to this, blockades were reported at the access points to the municipal seat, where passage was restricted primarily for members of indigenous communities.
Additionally, the monumental deer sculpture located at the municipality's scenic overlook was found toppled this morning.
On Sunday night—in addition to the highway closure—a pickup truck was reported to have been set on fire at the aforementioned "Miguelón" intersection. As of now, no information has been released regarding the individuals responsible for the act or the owner of the vehicle.
The blockade has also disrupted regional transport routes—such as those departing from the Momax (Zacatecas) or Colotlán intersections bound for Tuxpan or Puente de Camotlán (via Mezquitic)—as the route through Bolaños has remained closed for several days.
In a telephone interview, the Municipal President of Bolaños, Trino Sandoval González, stated that he is currently in Guadalajara attempting to engage in negotiations with the coordinators of the State Congress's parliamentary groups. His objective is to seek a resolution to the conflict and restore a sense of normalcy to municipal life.
The mayor noted that the situation has exceeded the operational capacity of the municipal government; consequently, he issued an urgent appeal to state and legislative authorities to intervene immediately to address the conflict and prevent further escalation. The crisis has disrupted the daily lives of families within the municipality; consequently, various sectors have urged that priority be given to dialogue and the forging of agreements aimed at restoring social peace—particularly in the context of Holy Week, one of the most significant celebrations for the mestizo community.
