Governor Supports Order to Demolish Punta Paraiso
- Pam Leiter
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
The ongoing legal and environmental battle over the Punta Paraíso luxury development in San Pancho, Nayarit has intensified, drawing attention from local activists, state and federal authorities, and the national press.
Government Action:
Governor Miguel Ángel Navarro Quintero has taken a strong public stance against the project, calling it illegal and pledging to demolish the buildings once the courts issue a ruling. He criticized previous federal environmental officials as corrupt and emphasized coordination between state and federal agencies to protect Nayarit's coastline. The appointment of Arq. Xitle Domínguez to SEMARNAT's Tepic office further signals a renewed push for enforcement. Domínguez stated the development has harmed ecological balance, violated zoning regulations, and must be torn down and restored.
Developer’s Response:
Carlos Lemus, head of Pacific Lifestyle Properties and a prominent real estate figure, claims Punta Paraíso is fully legal and has filed a new federal lawsuit to annul previous government orders. While his challenge may delay enforcement, observers believe reversal is unlikely due to mounting legal, political, and public pressure.
SLAPP Lawsuit & Human Rights Concerns:
The developer is also pursuing a civil defamation suit (often described as a SLAPP – Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) against five San Pancho activists, seeking 9 million pesos in damages. Their bank accounts have been frozen since 2019, and the case was filed in another state, making legal defense difficult and costly. Activists allege the lawsuit was meant to intimidate and silence opposition. The federal government has recognized the defendants as human rights defenders and implemented protective measures.
Broader Impact:
The Punta Paraíso controversy has become a national symbol of developer overreach vs. environmental law enforcement, with over 145,000 petition signatures calling for the project's demolition and restoration of turtle nesting beaches. While resolution remains uncertain and could take years, this case may set a precedent for future environmental protection in Mexico.
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