JUxtlahuaca, Oaxaca – The recent murder of Rafael González López, a human rights activist and member of the Movement for Unification and Triqui Independent Struggle (MULTI), marks a grave escalation in violence against Triqui community defenders. González was shot dead in the bustling center of Santiago Juxtlahuaca, adding to the tragic toll of two defenders lost in just one week.
The first incident occurred on Sunday at the home of Bonifacio Martínez Cruz, a leader of the Triqui community in San Quintín, resulting in the death of his brother, Eugenio Martínez Cruz. Additionally, Miguel Martínez Hernández, the leader’s son, and Cirilo Ramírez Cruz suffered serious injuries.
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The second fatality took place Thursday morning in the heart of Juxtlahuaca, where González was shot while walking down a main street. This week has seen two murders and two injuries reported.
In an official statement, MULTI attributed responsibility for the attack to the Movement for Unification and Triqui Struggle (MULT), accusing local power brokers and their paramilitary groups of launching yet another assault on the resilient Triqui people, leaving the community in deep sorrow and outrage.
In light of the recent violence against members of the Triqui community, MULTI is demanding immediate action from both state and federal governments to apprehend those accountable for this heinous act.
MULTI members noted that there have been 20 killings of their movement’s supporters since late 2020, following the armed displacement of residents from Tierra Blanca Copala by violent groups.
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“There is a clear political-electoral pact between the State and the MULT’s paramilitary leaders that has allowed violence against those of us who defend our land, lives, and rights. Without prompt and just action from authorities, we call for mobilization,” emphasized a MULTI representative.
“We will raise our voices and unite in action until justice is served for Rafael González and safety is ensured for every individual in our community. Impunity must not prevail over the justice we demand,” the organization declared.
