Colombia is experiencing widespread social unrest after a controversial tax reform was promoted by the country's president Iván Duque.
19 people have been killed and another 800 have been injured in episodes of violence around the country such as this one.
In light of the situation, bishops from Colombia have spoken out against the violence and acts of vandalism.
BP. JUAN CARLOS CÁRDENAS
Bishop of Pasto (Colombia)
'We feel and understand those just demands, as long as they are obtained by a legitimate route of social manifestation, with respect for the public and private good. But we also call on the authorities to respect and safeguard the right to life of the demonstrators and to not exceed the use of force.'
Juan Carlos Cárdenas is the Bishop of Pasto in Colombia. In line with the other Colombian bishops, he insisted on moving towards national reconciliation without falling into violence.
BP. JUAN CARLOS CÁRDENAS
Bishop of Pasto (Colombia)
'It's necessary that all sectors of society be heard and not just small groups. And now with the current blockade of the main roads in the country, we are asking the leaders of the strike to maintain humanitarian channels, humanitarian corridors, so that in the midst of this pandemic, ambulances are allowed to pass to transfer patients in critical situations, and to allow the entry of vaccines and oxygen to the cities.'
Several bishops of New Granada are asking for a 'Humanitarian Commission' to overcome this moment of tension.
For this first Friday of May, the bishops have called for a day of prayer to pray for peace in Colombia.
Daniel Diaz Vizzi
TR: Justin McLellan
