Deep political crisis in Paraguay worries evangelical Christians

Three evangelical bodies in Paraguay have expressed their concern about the “national political crisis” that led to violent riots last weekend.

The national parliament was attacked by protesters and a young opposition activist was killed during a police intervention.

“We express our deep concern and sorrow after witnessing the violent conflict between brothers that is happening in the political sphere, and has expanded to all sectors of society”, the Association of Evangelical Churches of Paraguay (ASIEP), the Association of Evangelical Pastors of Paraguay (APEP) and the group Parliament & Faith say in a statement.

“Justice must prevail”, the text continues. “Paraguay has to be lead under the shelter of the rule of law, which is expressed  by clearly respecting the law above personal and sectarian interests.”

“When those in political leadership leave this conduct, we see with sorrow the outcome of anarchy and chaos.”

THE AMENDMENT IS CRITICISED

The evangelical organisations rejects “any conduct that violates the established laws”.

In this way, evangelicals expressed their criticism of the amendment which would allow the President to be re-elected, a possibility that was ruled out in the Constitution.

The modification of the law, which has not included the opposition and was moved forward with a lack of transparency, led to a heated social debate and provoked an immediate reaction on the streets. The National Congress (parliament) was attacked and led to police violence.

Through the statement, the evangelical entities issue “a vehement call to all the citizens of our nation, which today is full of exasperation, and especially to our national authorities (…) to a profound reflection. We must revert the attitudes that lead to violence and start narrowing our differences in the frame of respect, peace and harmony.”

Meanwhile, Christians were called to “fast and pray for our beloved nation, asking God for peace, good sense and wisdom.”