https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/10/what-is-a-machete-anyway/280705/

The machete initially known as a tool is now seen as a weapon used to intend harm when seen in the hands of criminals. The machete is a tool previously used by farmers or people in rural areas, they would use the machete to cut grass, or other resources they acquired.

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/10/what-is-a-machete-anyway/280705/

Machetes are considered a cheap alternative for guns, neighbors had the utilities to slaughter each other with the own tools they used in their own fields, The use of machetes lead to genocides destroying tutsi people. Ordinary people would have rather used the machete for gruesome activities. The machete once a simple tool has grown to become a symbol for violence in the present.

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/10/what-is-a-machete-anyway/280705/

The machete although a tool can quickly become a weapon in the hands of everyday people, for example when overthrowing corrupt leaders the people would revolt back in a machete they had used for their own labor. It is seen as a political symbol because it signifies the strength of the villagers or normal citizens revolting.