Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - The Archbishop of Caracas (Venezuela), Cardinal Jorge Urosa Savino has made an urgent plea for freedom and calm, for a democratic environment, respect for different opinions, and for an end to the violence that has been unleashed in the country, especially in light of the recent reported attacks on various regions of the country. Last week, the Apostolic Nunciature in Caracas was attacked by several unidentified persons. Just the day before, an explosive had been placed at the base of a statue of the United States founding father, George Washington, which stands in a square on the west side of the Venezuelan capital city. Also, attacks have been reported in Barinas and violent confrontations between rival political groups in San Casimiro, in the country’s central region. Also, in the western state of Lara, attacks were launched on a gathering of people collecting signatures in favour of freedom of expression in the country and in defence of a private news channel, “Globovision.” Similar incidents have been reported throughout the entire country.
With this panorama, Cardinal Urosa explained that Venezuelans should work to “understand each other. The authorities are called to maintain an attitude of dialogue and understanding and not to allow for an environment of political violence. We cannot continue walking down this road of political violence. This should end, and this is the plea I am making, as Archbishop of Caracas, to the authorities,” the Cardinal stated. These declarations have been made following a document issued by the Bishops’ Conference, expressing their worries following the attack on the Apostolic Nunciature in Venezuela and the rise of political violence (see Fides 18/2/2008).
The Cardinal insisted that the authorities protect the diplomatic seat of the Vatican in Caracas, as it does not currently have governmental protection and considering that the attack was very serious. “They are attacking the Catholics’ sensibilities and we cannot remain indifferent. As Archbishop of Caracas, I ask that the rights of all Venezuelan Catholics be respected.” He also called for a just attitude on the part of authorities and politicians. “For us, the Bishops, this as our lasting cry; as Venezuelans, we need to work to understand one another. All people and authorities are called to have this attitude of understanding, dialogue, and problem solving; without creating an environment of political violence.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 19/2/08; righe 32; parole 387)
