Indigenous Rights Activist Marcelo Pérez Shot Dead

Marcelo Pérez, a Catholic priest and Indigenous rights activist, was shot dead by two gunmen on a motorcycle in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, shortly after officiating Mass, marking a tragic incident amid rising violence in the region. Known for his advocacy for Indigenous peoples and farmworkers, Pérez had faced numerous death threats due to his outspoken stance against organized crime. His assassination has drawn calls for justice from community members and officials, including Chiapas Governor Rutilio Escandon, who condemned the act as 'cowardly.' The Jesuits, his religious order, highlighted Pérez's role as a defender of dignity and rights for over two decades, emphasizing the ongoing violence in Chiapas, which has seen a significant increase in murders this year. The state reported around 500 murders from January to August, up from 309 in the same period last year. This event underscores the escalating violence and challenges faced by activists in Mexico, particularly in regions affected by crime and corruption.