"In all likelihood, that was a failed attack," says Paco de Coro. That the Church of Nicaragua is in the crosshairs of the violent repression the Sandinista government of President Daniel Ortega has implemented against anyone who opposes the regime seems to be a matter of fact. From mediators to opponents, the bishops, priests and friars working to help the victims and refugees during these tough times have been moved to the top of the "black list" of the so-called "Turbas", the pro-government groups of paramilitaries, fomented also by different organs of communication that have defined the religious as "traitors".
This last serious attack was against Msgr. Juan Abelardo Mata Guevara, 72 years old, Salesian, bishop of Estelí, former president of the Episcopal Conference, member of the Episcopal commission charged with mediating dialogue between government and civil society. His is one of the most critical voices against President Ortega's government.
Roberto Petray, the bishop's assistant, said the bishop "was intercepted by paramilitaries who fired bullets at the car, breaking glass and trying to set fire to it." Escaping unharmed, the bishop took refuge in a house, where National Police agents showed up and escorted him safely to Managua.
Fuente: Vatican Insider, Paco de Coro, SDB
