The murder of the Tsotsil priest Marcelo Pérez Pérez in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, is under investigation by the relevant authorities. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo confirmed that the necessary investigations are being carried out and that the Secretary of the Interior, Rosa Icela Rodríguez, is already in contact with local and ecclesiastical authorities. More information about the case is expected to be revealed in the coming days.
For her part, Rosa Icela Rodríguez expressed her sorrow over the tragic event and reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to ensure that there is no impunity in this case. She expressed her solidarity with the Catholic community and assured that justice will be served. The murder of Marcelo Pérez caused shock among human rights organizations, the Catholic Church, and the congregation, as well as in national and international public opinion.
Father Marcelo Pérez was shot dead on Sunday after officiating a mass. The priest, recognized for his efforts in promoting reconciliation and peace in Chiapas, had received prior threats. In a recent interview, Pérez had denounced the presence of organized crime in the region and had urged authorities to act to curb violence in the area.
The State Attorney General's Office opened an investigation file for the crime of homicide and detailed that the crime occurred in the Cuxtitali neighborhood of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Pérez was attacked by two individuals on a motorcycle as he left the church where he had officiated the mass. Authorities have committed to clarifying the facts and ensuring that no unlawful action goes unpunished.
The regrettable event has triggered a wave of indignation and solidarity, both nationally and internationally. Various organizations, human rights defenders, and the Catholic Church itself have condemned the murder of the priest and have demanded justice for Marcelo Pérez Pérez.
