AMERICA/MEXICO - Archbishop of Oaxaca calls for reforms to meet needs and aspirations of all

Oaxaca (Agenzia Fides) - The Archbishop of Oaxaca has appealed for national reforms to involve the authorities and the people in general in order to overcome the present "social emergency". Archbishop José Luis Chávez Botello issued a statement following social unrest in the city on 14 June during which one person was killed (see Fides 9/1/2007; 4/12/2006; 28/11/2006, 31/10/2006). According to the Archbishop the demonstrations showed once again the popular dissatisfaction. “The situation calls for an objective assessment of successes and errors in order to learn from experience to transform the nation constructively and structurally" the Archbishop said.
Archbishop José Luis Chávez Botello says the situation must be viewed with realism and calm "not blinded by personal interests and irresponsibility". Although there are signs of responsibility, nevertheless what is needed is swifter procedure in justice, eradication of all corruption so that personal or group interests are never put before the common good". Although Oaxaca society is respectful and patient, at decisive moments many gave in to "personal gain which feeds corruption and society was not seen to responsibly protect and promote the common good."
The Archbishop writes "any offence to a person is an offence to society and when it affects many it constitutes a threat to humanity ". In this situation Archbishop José Luis stresses the "urgency of indispensable reforms to meet the needs and fundamental aspirations of the people of Oaxaca; an education reform to fill the frustrating void and powerlessness; the urgent need to involve the people in fuller and more active and responsible participation to promote the common good". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 21/6/2007; righe 26, parole 341)