Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
La Paz (Agenzia Fides) - “The recent acts of extreme violence, that have already claimed human lives in Epizana, as well as the fighting that has broken out in certain areas, in protest of Parliament, are clear signs of the gravity of the situation. We believe that they constitute a serious threat to the foundations of democracy and the institutional life of the country,” the Bishops said in a statement issued by the press office of the Bishops’ Conference, in reference to the political crisis that has arisen in the country.
On February 28, the party of President Evo Morales in Congress voted in favor of two referendums in order to approve their constitutional project on May 4th. All this took place amidst angered protests from the opposition party and in the absence of various deputies who could not enter the session. The members of Parliament from the governmental Movement for Socialism (MAS) voted in a matter of minutes, by a show of hands and without discussion. Some legislators were unable to enter the session because of the aggressive crowd of farmers, indigenous people, and miners who blocked Congress’ doors.
One referendum is on whether the limit of land properties will be 5,000 or 10,000 acres, a matter that was not left clearly defined in Congress last year. The other will put to a vote a Constitutional amendment that, according to opposition party leaders, represents the wishes of only a part of the country and has been rejected by political and civil leaders in six of Bolivia’s nine regions, as these consider that it was illegally approved by Congress last December. An additional third law was passed, granting exclusive power to Congress in calling regional referendums, impeding autonomous decisions on the part of opposing regions such as the wealthy area of Santa Cruz and Beni, both of which had already called referendums to take place on May 4th and June 1st, respectively.
In their statement on the situation, the Bishops have firmly opposed the assaults on physical integrity: “The lack of respect for the value of life and the irresponsible use of pressure that have taken precedence in the Palace of Congress, an institution that should represent the people and that plays a fundamental role in the country’s democratic life, should be of concern for us in thinking of the destiny and future of our people.” They also make an appeal to those in positions of authority in the country, “to maintain respect for life, personal freedom, and the democratic culture of our people,” leaving aside “the improper use of social groups in order to impose political projects and perspectives.” They make a request, as well, that all “responsibly choose a path of dialogue, respect for life and rights, and in favor of personal liberties.”
“We invite the Catholics of our country to revive their faith and offer their fervent prayer for the restoration of calm, a responsible awareness in carrying out services for the common good, and respect and tolerance for all Bolivians,” the statement concluded. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 29/2/2008; righe 40, parole 506)
