Priest Marcelo Pérez was transferred to the parish of Guadalupe in San Cristóbal de las Casas two and a half years ago due to death threats related to a political dispute in the municipality of Pantelhó. Armed groups such as Los Machetes and Los Herrera were fighting for control of the area, with Los Herrera ultimately taking power. Despite the violence in the region, Marcelo continued working for peace.
On September 13, Father Marcelo participated in a march for peace and the ecumenical prayer, along with other dioceses in Chiapas. However, on October 20, Marcelo Pérez was shot dead by hitmen in the Cuxtitali neighborhood after receiving death threats for his alleged connection to an armed group in the area.
Father Marcelo Pérez Pérez was known for his work in defense of peace and justice in Chiapas. Following his assassination, the European Union delegation issued a statement condemning the act and expressing condolences to the family, friends, and the Diocese of Chiapas. The importance of protecting human rights defenders in Mexico and preventing impunity in cases like this was highlighted.
Marcelo Pérez Pérez, of Tsotsil descent, served as a parish priest in Guadalupe and previously in Chenalhó. He had revealed in a previous interview the existence of threats against him but continued with his work under God's protection.
