Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - The "Justice and Peace" Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Venezuela (CEV) expressed concern about the state of health of the former mayor of Tachira, Daniel Ceballos, who has been on a hunger strike since the end of May and has asked the authorities for the immediate intervention of the health staff and the possibility of meeting his lawyer and his family. The statement sent to Fides reports that Ceballos is still being held at the San Juan de los Morros detention center, about 150 km from Caracas, "awaiting trial", as other protesters detained after anti-government protests in the first half of 2014.
"Former Mayor Ceballos and the political leader of the opposition, Leopoldo Lopez, as reported by their families, have been on a hunger strike since the end of May; this has led to a worsening of their health condition, which along with inhuman living conditions, puts their lives at risk" is what is stated in the press release. "As recommended by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, we urgently appeal the Venezuelan authorities, in favor of all political prisoners and especially former mayor Daniel Ceballos, so that they ensure health care and meet their lawyers and families".
Venezuela is experiencing a climate of high tension. The international press is following with interest the situation because of the hunger strike carried out by the students gathered in a church (see Fides 03/06/2015). (CE) (Agenzia Fides 05/06/2015)
