Debate on security in Miraflores: mayor defends management in the face of criticism.

The mayor of Miraflores, Carlos Canales, is at the center of an intense debate regarding the perception of safety in his district. In response to a recent report indicating an increase in crime reports, Canales asserted that the reality is more complex than what the headlines suggest. He argued that there is a disparity between the number of reported crimes and the actual situation in the district, claiming that the presence of a much larger floating population than the resident population in Miraflores distorts crime statistics. During a recent interview, Canales emphasized that the information disseminated through media outlets like El Comercio does not take into account the context surrounding Miraflores. With approximately 100,000 residents and a floating population of over 500,000 people, the mayor maintains that the volume of reports should be interpreted differently, as most crimes are committed by individuals who do not reside in the district. According to him, this creates a scenario where crime is magnified for reasons that go beyond the local reality. One aspect that Canales emphasizes is that Miraflores has shown progress in reducing crime. According to his data, from July 2023 to July 2024, reports of theft have decreased by 27%. Additionally, the mayor stated that Miraflores is one of the safest districts in the capital, with rates of violent crime that are notably low compared to other districts in Lima. However, the perception of insecurity remains a recurring issue among residents, leading to criticisms of his administration and calls for his recall. Canales also addressed the issue of the security system implemented in the district, noting that he has significantly increased the number of security personnel and surveillance cameras in an effort to improve public safety. Through the incorporation of artificial intelligence technology, the mayor hopes not only to enhance the effectiveness of capturing criminals but also to generate a sense of security among residents. Despite these investments and changes, the perception of insecurity seems to persist, which may be related to a broader political context. The mayor attributes part of the discontent to political interests aimed at discrediting his administration. Canales refers to a "political component" behind the complaints, suggesting that the opposition has used the perception of insecurity as a tool to justify the recall request against him. He insists that many of the problems he faces are the result of a smear campaign that does not reflect the efforts his administration has made to improve security. The extraordinary budget approved by Congress, amounting to 17.5 million soles, aims to fund various security initiatives. Canales highlighted that part of these funds will be allocated for the acquisition of vehicles and drones, as well as the construction of decentralized modules to address security issues in different areas of the district. This is in addition to the provision of patrol cars and motorcycles that have been implemented under his administration, aiming to enhance the operational capacity of local security forces. However, not everything has been positive. Canales confirmed that the execution of some projects, such as the improvement of public safety services, stands at 0% on the Ministry of Economy and Finance's portal, which could be interpreted as a lack of effectiveness in implementing these plans. Despite this, the mayor remained optimistic, asserting that the projects are underway and that execution figures will increase in the coming months. In addition to security issues, the mayor has also faced complaints regarding the treatment of residents, particularly concerning the use of public space. Canales emphasized that there was a period of conflicts that has now been resolved, stressing that his administration has made efforts to promote the use of these spaces for cultural and recreational purposes. In his view, efficient management must balance the interests of merchants and residents, and he believes his approach has been misinterpreted at times. As elections approach, Canales finds himself at a crossroads. While he has faced criticism and a recall request, he has also received support from a segment of the population that values his efforts to improve the district. When questioned about his political future, the mayor expressed that his main goal is to be remembered as an efficient mayor and did not rule out the possibility of reelection, but made it clear that his current focus is on his administration in Miraflores. In a context marked by political polarization and distrust in institutions, Carlos Canales's situation reflects the complexity of governing during difficult times. As his term progresses, the mayor will have to continue facing the challenge of changing the perception of insecurity among residents while responding to political pressures and striving to maintain balance in a district that is both a tourist hub and a home to thousands of people.