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Tragic Assassination of Indigenous Priest Marcelo Perez Highlights Escalating Violence in Chiapas

Monday 21 October 2024 - 09:09

In a shocking incident that underscores the rising tide of violence in southern Mexico, Catholic priest Marcelo Perez, a dedicated advocate for Indigenous rights and farm laborers, was gunned down by two assailants shortly after officiating Sunday mass. The attack occurred in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, as Perez was returning to his church. Eyewitness accounts reveal that the gunmen, riding a motorcycle, approached his vehicle and opened fire, leading to his untimely death.

Marcelo Perez was a member of the Tzotzil Indigenous Maya community and had devoted nearly two decades to serving the local population. He was well-regarded for his role as a mediator in various conflicts within Chiapas, a region grappling with persistent crime, violence, and land disputes. The Jesuit order to which he belonged issued a heartfelt statement, recognizing him as a "symbol of resistance" who tirelessly defended the dignity and rights of Indigenous peoples while striving for genuine peace.

This tragic assassination follows a series of death threats directed at Perez due to his outspoken opposition to organized crime and his active participation in marches against violence. The United Nations human rights office in Mexico highlighted that numerous national and international organizations had previously warned about the escalating threats against him, which intensified as he continued his relentless pursuit of justice for Indigenous communities.

Chiapas Governor Rutilio Escandon condemned the "cowardly assassination" on social media, pledging to work closely with authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The state has witnessed a disturbing increase in violence; official figures indicate that 500 murders were recorded from January to August this year, a significant rise from 309 during the same period last year.

The assassination of Father Marcelo Perez serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by human rights defenders in Mexico. His commitment to advocating for peace and justice in Chiapas has left an indelible mark on the community he served. As calls for accountability grow louder, the challenge remains for authorities to address the systemic issues contributing to such violence in the region.