Cheers, jeers greet Mexico’s new president
MEXICO CITY— Enrique Pena Nieto took the oath of office as Mexico’s new president on Saturday, bringing the old ruling party back to power after a 12-year hiatus amid protests inside and outside the congressional chamber where he swore to protect the constitution.
“I promise to uphold the constitution and its laws and to carry out loyally and patriotically the job of president of the republic,” he said with arm outstretched.
“If I don’t, the people will demand it.”
The chamber erupted in cheers, with congress members chanting “Bravo president!” and “Mexico!” despite the earlier violent conflict, which had dispersed by the time the new president arrived.
Protesters opposed to Pena Nieto and the return of his Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI, had clashed with tear gas-wielding police.
At least 76 people were treated for injuries, including 29 who were hospitalized.
Leftist congress members inside the chamber gave protest speeches and hung banners, including a giant one reading, “Imposition consummated. Mexico mourns.”
The PRI ruled for 71 years with what many considered to be an iron fist, using a mix of populist handouts, graft and rigged elections.
After Saturday’s oath-taking, Pena Nieto headed to deliver an inaugural speech at the historic National Palace in the city’s downtown.