AMERICA/MEXICO - Even though depenalised by the government, abortion is still an abominable crime against God's commandment, 'You shall not kill’: Bishops of Oaxaza on depenalisation of abortion up to 12th week of pregnancy

Mexico City Agenzia Fides) - Ignoring a request for a referendum presented by over 76,000 citizens, on 24 April the Federal District Legislative Assembly approved with 46 votes in favour, 9 against and one abstention the proposed bill to reform the Penal Code to allow abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy.
In the same session the Assembly approved a series of changes in the local health law to oblige public health services to perform abortion on request and oblige the government to promote sexual health and reproductive rights, such as responsible maternity and paternity.
For the law to come into force it must be promulgated by the mayor of Mexico City Marcelo Ebrard and this would liken it to Cuba, Guayana and Porto Rico, for the moment the only places in Latin America where this option is allowed.
The day before the bill was voted the Catholic Bishops of Oaxaca issued a statement to clarify certain aspects and reply to certain questions used as a pretext to justify and promote conduct contrary to life. In Mexican society the debate is causing confusion, division and heated argument. The Bishops recall "Even though depenalised by the government abortion is still an abominable crime against God's commandment, 'You shall not kill’. Alternative solutions to the problem must be sought in intensifying efforts to improve health and authentic and complete education ".
For his part the Archbishop of Mexico City said for the moment there will be no public statement on the resolution until the Bishops' Conference has studied it in the light of the Gospel and consulted various experts with regard to the moral consequences of the reforms in question. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 25/4/2007; righe 27, parole 346)