Quito (Fides Service) - The Church in Ecuador, attentive to the phenomena which strike the people has on various occasions called attention to growing malcontent among the people with the country in an economic, social and moral crisis. This was a sign that the country was moving towards a slippery slope to anarchy, dictatorship or even civil war, fighting among brothers of the same nation, which unfortunately has occurred. In recent weeks Ecuador has lived days of general mobilisation, harsh suppression of demonstrations with a tragic toll of dead and injured leading to the destitution of President Lucio Gutiérrez harshly criticised by the people.
In a statement dated April 21 the Bishops’ Conference of Ecuador expressed support for the new President Alfredo Palacio implying that parliament achieved a presidential succession in the framework of legal and constitutional norms. “The Bishops’ Conference urged the government to straighten its steps with absolute fidelity to the law and the constitution; and to restore to the country the peace necessary for its development, always listening to the aspirations of the people”. The Bishops call on the people, and all social and political forces to unite efforts to promote the good of the nation urging parliament to correct its attitudes and activity and be concerned solely for the common good. Lastly the Bishops call on the armed forces to help consolidate the state of law long desired by Ecuador. Tomorrow Fides will give ulterior information on the situation Ecuador (R.Z.) (Agenzia Fides 28/4/2005, righe 19, parole 250)