#Mexican #Priest and #Indigenous #Rights #Advocate #Killed by #Cartel #Gunmen in #Chiapas

Gunmen in Mexico have shot and killed Father Marcelo Pérez, a Jesuit priest known for his outspoken stance against cartel violence and his advocacy for indigenous rights. Father Marcelo, a member of the Tzotzil indigenous group, was murdered after celebrating Mass in the city of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, on Sunday. For nearly two decades, Father Marcelo fought for the dignity and rights of indigenous communities in Chiapas. His efforts to bring peace to a region devastated by cartel violence made him a target. He had recently received death threats as criminal gangs and vigilante groups clashed for control in the area. The Jesuit Order condemned the murder, stating that Father Marcelo’s death should not be seen as an isolated incident but as part of a broader wave of violence plaguing the region. Mexico’s bishops also lamented the loss, calling him a “prophetic voice” for peace. President Claudia Sheinbaum vowed to investigate and bring justice. Father Marcelo had war