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The Mexican Observatory on Mental Health and Addictions has issued an early warning about the rise of Xylazine, a veterinary drug, being mixed with Fentanyl and methamphetamine among addicts in Mexico. Known as the “zombie drug” in the United States, Xylazine is gaining popularity due to its potent, relaxing effects, similar to Fentanyl, and can be lethal in cases of overdose, leading to respiratory arrest.

Juan Manuel Quijada Gaitán, the National Commissioner of Mental Health and Addictions in Baja California, noted that while Xylazine use is still rare in Mexico, its presence has already been detected in our State. It remains a legal substance under the regulation of the Federal Commission against Health Risks (Cofepris) due to its veterinary applications. Like Fentanyl, it is used medically, primarily in veterinary practices, for its sedative properties that depress the central nervous system, akin to opioids.

The alert was triggered after consultations with prosecutors, health secretaries, forensic medical services, and associations such as Prevencasa in Tijuana and other rehabilitation centers. Gaitán expressed concern over the affordability of synthetic drugs like Xylazine and Fentanyl, which makes them accessible to those struggling with addiction. In the event of an overdose, it can be countered with naloxone.

As Baja California enters its official campaign period for the 2023-2024 local elections, political activity is picking up across the region. From now until May 29, candidates will compete for various positions within the state’s seven municipal governments—including mayors and city councils—as well as 25 seats in the State Congress. This election cycle, managed by the State Electoral Institute of Baja California (IEEBC), will determine 122 new local officials, such as council members, legal trustees, mayors, and local deputies.

This election is historic for San Quintín and San Felipe, which will choose their mayors via the ballot box for the first time. These elections are simultaneous with the Federal Electoral Process, where Mexicans will vote for federal lawmakers and the President.

Participants in this year’s election include nine political parties, a coalition, and an independent candidate aiming for the mayoral seat in San Quintín. Local dynamics are interesting, with some parties forming a coalition for select municipalities and others choosing to go solo after planned alliances dissolved.

The campaigns also emphasize gender parity, with regulations requiring parties to nominate a balanced lineup of male and female candidates for mayor across various competitive blocks. This measure aims to foster a more inclusive political environment.

New logistical features such as candidate photos on local ballots will debut, enhancing voter familiarity and engagement. Another significant update is the inclusion of specific mandates for parties to present candidates from underrepresented groups, including indigenous, Afro-Mexican communities, and LGBT+ individuals, promoting diversity in representation.

With the stage set for a dynamic election, the residents of Baja California are ready to influence the future of their local governance, making informed choices that will shape the region’s socio-political landscape in significant ways.