The municipality of Tila, Chiapas, was once again the scene of violence after the assassination of José Pérez Martínez, president of the communal land commission elected by customs and traditions. Pérez was shot in a village in Río Grande after meeting with communal landholders.
The crime not only shocked the community, but also reignited long-standing tensions between groups vying for control of the land and the communal land governance structures.
José Pérez’s Last Meeting
On Wednesday afternoon, José Pérez left an assembly where the agrarian problems that have plagued Tila for years were being discussed. On the way to his community, a road surrounded by trees became his last route. Upon reaching a village, he was intercepted and shot.
Residents say that José always defended the autonomy of his communal land. Therefore, his murder represents not only the loss of a leader, but also a blow to the community organization that seeks to keep alive the tradition of governing itself by customs and traditions.
Investigation by the Chiapas Prosecutor’s Office
The State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) reported that it has opened an investigation into the homicide. Initially, authorities were unable to enter the site because residents, distrusting the institutions, blocked access.
After a dialogue, officers were able to remove the body and transfer it to the Forensic Medical Service for a legal autopsy.
The FGE stated that it is committed to ensuring justice “with zero impunity,” although the people of Tila remain doubtful about the effectiveness of the investigation.
Agrarian conflicts and autonomy
The murder of José Pérez occurs in a context of agrarian conflicts that have gone unresolved for decades. The position of ejido commissioner has been a point of contention, as federal governments have not officially recognized the authorities elected by customs and traditions.
This duality has led to clashes between communities and groups with opposing interests. The crime, therefore, is not an isolated incident: it is part of a chain of tensions surrounding land, autonomy, and violence in Chiapas.
Demand for justice and community peace
For the residents of Tila, José Pérez’s death symbolizes the constant risk faced by community leaders seeking to mediate ejido conflicts.
While the investigations progress slowly, the communities’ call is clear: peace, security, and respect for autonomy.
Source: msn
