Priests in Mexican state of Oaxaca denounce excessive force by police

Published: 2007-08-01

MEXICO CITY (CNS) -- A group of priests from the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca denounced what they say was excessive force by police to keep protesters away from an annual culture fair. "That battle and its outcome leave a taste of personal vengeance with the aim of intimidating people, teaching them a lesson and halting any attempt to protest against the unhealthy way Oaxaca is governed," said the 45 priests in a statement released July 27. The priests said the government response represented "an attitude of war against its own people." The event, known as "Guelaguetza," celebrates Oaxaca's indigenous crafts, dance and cuisine, and is an important tourist draw. It was canceled last year after a large protest movement seized control of much of the city of Oaxaca. This year's Guelaguetza event in late July was reinforced by riot police who clashed with thousands of marching protesters, resulting in dozens of injuries and arrests. Oaxaca law enforcement officials said the clash was a reaction to demonstrators who attacked officers with stones, sticks and bottle rockets.

Copyright (c) 2007 Catholic News Service /U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service .