( Spanish) — In the midst of the security crisis facing Ecuador, the country’s Episcopal Conference called on violent groups to “lay down their arms,” while raising a cry for peace and justice.
“We demand, in the name of God, that the violent lay down their arms, that they do not kill their brothers or extort them. Human life is sacred!” He said in a statement.
The religious institution expressed its solidarity with the victims of violence and affirmed that the growing insecurity has been generated by the political and economic crisis.
The Episcopal Conference also demanded that the government generate public policies that favor peace, dialogue, the rule of law, public safety and inclusion.
“Populist measures that, instead of tackling the country’s problems, lead to further violence and disintegration must be avoided,” he stressed.
The bishops and archbishops of Ecuador insisted on the need to work for reconciliation, peace and respect for life in the country and asked social and political leaders to put aside their particular interests.
“It is a betrayal to legislate, to administer justice and to govern with the back turned to the great aspirations of the poorest!” the statement added.
Ecuador has faced recent acts of violence, including three explosions in Guayaquil and several deadly clashes in prisons.
