## Victor Castro’s Midterm Report: Achievements and Criticisms
Victor Castro Cosío, currently at the midpoint of his term as governor, delivered his third annual report, branded as the “Citizen Meeting,” from Ciudad Constitución. Unlike previous years, where his cabinet members presented the progress of their departments, Castro chose to highlight the significant accomplishments of 2024 across various sectors himself.
### Achievements Highlighted:
Castro emphasized the reduction in Baja California Sur’s crime rates, attributing this to proactive social programs such as “Párale a la Violencia.” According to data from Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), Baja California Sur now has the lowest perception of insecurity in the country.
He underscored:
– A significant reduction in home burglaries (16%), vehicle thefts (7%), and sexual harassment incidents (11%).
– The launch of gender violence prevention programs, aiming to curb crimes primarily affecting women and children.
In terms of education, an impressive investment of 763 million pesos improved school infrastructures, technology provisions, and provided scholarships to thousands of students. The governor also shared updates on infrastructure improvements, including roadworks and electrification projects designed to enhance community well-being and local economic opportunities.
### Critics from Opposition:
Post-report, Guadalupe Saldaña Cisneros of the opposition party, criticized Castro’s administration for failing to address key issues. She highlighted unresolved problems like water shortages and inadequate federal support for roads and agriculture. According to Saldaña, although certain projects like new hospitals and electrification were acknowledged, they primarily relied on federal funds, suggesting state leadership must push harder for regional needs.
## Castro’s Vision Meets Opposition Scrutiny
As leaders strive to balance public perception and real achievements, Victor Castro Cosío’s midterm report faced notable criticism, particularly from prominent opposition voices. Saldaña Cisneros of the PAN firmly stated that the “transformation” promised by Castro has yet to be realized, citing persistent challenges like the lack of water infrastructure and employment opportunities. Her remarks suggest a disconnection between reported accomplishments and the everyday experiences of constituents.
### Other Developments:
Simultaneously, more discussions have emerged nationwide regarding critical issues, paralleling the critiques seen on a state level. Policies around land expropriation for housing have begun taking shape, and roads remain in dire need of federal attention. Advocates argue for improvements in connectivity to support economic growth and social integration.
Further federal moves have placed a spotlight on strengthening infrastructures, with promises of increased investments aimed at revamping critical regional roads. These developments serve as a backdrop to ongoing dialogues, promising gradual, albeit mixed, progress.
While Castro’s report reflects a series of calculated efforts to address pressing issues, opposition stories remind the public of the complexities and gaps in seeing comprehensive change across Baja California Sur. Going forward, collaboration between state and federal bodies appears more crucial than ever to fulfill both immediate and long-term regional goals.