Violence in Chiapas has intensified due to the alliance between chieftain groups and organized crime cartels, as well as the lack of action from federal and state authorities. Amado Avendaño, a Chiapas journalist and promoter of the National Civic Front (FCN), pointed out in an interview for 'Aristegui en Vivo' that the recent murder of priest Marcelo Pérez in Simojovel has struck a blow to the hope for peace in the region. Father Marcelo was known for denouncing violence and fighting against it, leading marches to demand an end to violence in Chiapas.
Avendaño recalled that the priest was transferred from Simojovel to San Cristóbal de las Casas after receiving threats from organized crime and local chieftains for his work defending communities. Upon arriving in San Cristóbal, he became involved in protecting the residents of Pantelhó against the criminal group 'Los Herrera,' affiliated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The presence of these criminal groups has caused insecurity in Chiapas for years, affecting priests and members of the Diocese of San Cristóbal.
The murder of Father Marcelo Pérez sends a message of intimidation to those who marched for peace in Chiapas with the Catholic community. Avendaño emphasized the inaction of authorities in the face of violence in the region, which has left communities like Pantelhó in complete vulnerability. Security consultant David Saucedo stated that the crime against the priest was a fulfilled threat from the cartels, who had already directed multiple warnings at the clergyman.
The journalist recalled that Marcelo Pérez, belonging to the indigenous community, followed the vocation of religious leaders like Samuel Ruiz and Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero, committed to defending the most disadvantaged. Additionally, he criticized the cold and lacking empathy response from President Claudia Sheinbaum regarding the murder, considering her approach to the issue insufficient given the severity of the situation in Chiapas.
