AMERICA/GUATEMALA – Increasing violence and conflict in the department of Solola, the Bishops call for dialogue and prayer

AMERICA/GUATEMALA — Due to the increasing violence and conflict within the department of Solola the Bishops appeal for dialogue.

Guatemala de la Asuncion – The Bishops in Guatemala express their “enormous concern for the violence that has caused many victims, including children and women, as well as police officers who were killed. The Guatemalan bishops expressed their anger at the use of violence to achieve their goals, and condemned the “increasing violence,” polarization, and conflict in the Nahuala and Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan municipalities. They state that violence only leads to more violence and that organized crime is responsible for the events.
In a joint message, the bishops recall violent conflicts between Nahuala and Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan indigenous communities, which have been fighting over borders for more than 100 years. Guatemala is one the 15 countries with the highest violence rate. The conflict between the two communities prompted the President to place a state of siege on them a few months back.
“We appeal to all member of these brotherly nations and above all to the recognized leaders, that they seek peaceful and law-compliant ways to defend their respective positions and protect their rights,” said the bishops. They also reminded the importance of dialogue in solving problems.
“For this purpose we call on the national, local authorities to continue searching for solutions to defuse the violence”, write bishops. They appeal in particular to communities and pastoral workers, and all men and woman of good will to “work and pray” for peace. (SL) (Agenzia Fides, 10/1/2022)

Share: