Families of the 43 students from a rural teacher’s college abducted 10 years ago in southern Mexico gathered in Mexico City to mark the painful anniversary. Thousands marched through the capital, demanding the truth about what happened and justice for the missing students.
Despite a decade passing, the families remain disillusioned with unfulfilled government promises. The father of one missing student expressed his disbelief at the lack of answers after all this time.
Supporters, including first-time marchers like homemaker Lourdes Silva and her daughter, joined the families in their quest for answers. Silva emphasized the importance of continued pressure to bring an end to the parents' agony.
The anniversary comes just before the departure of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who had initially sparked hope among the families when he took office in 2018. His administration made some progress by establishing a Truth Commission and declaring the disappearances a “state crime.” However, the investigation hit a roadblock due to lack of military cooperation.
Despite initial optimism, many feel let down by the president's alignment with the military. The families are still seeking closure and justice for their missing loved ones.
The tragic events of September 26, 2014, when the students were attacked by a local drug gang with alleged involvement of authorities, remain shrouded in mystery. The families, along with over 115,000 others missing in Mexico, continue to demand accountability.
While some progress has been made with arrests and charges against officials, the families are determined to keep fighting for the truth. The United Nations Human Rights Office and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights have expressed concerns over the slow progress and lack of transparency in the investigation.
As a new president prepares to take office, the families are ready to continue their fight for justice. They remain resolute in their quest for answers and closure, vowing to hold the incoming administration accountable.