Pope Francis condemns "violence" in Ecuador which Took the Life of Presidential Candidate Fernando Villavicencio

In sent a telegram of condolence over the murder of Ecuadoran presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. In it the pope  expresses his sorrow and calls on the nation's political leaders and citizens to unite in favour of peace.

Pope Francis  appealed on the political forces and citizens of Ecuador to unite "in a common effort for peace" in a telegram, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and sent to Archbishop Alfredo José Espinoza Mateus of Quito. The Pope expresses his sadness at the assassination of the country's presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, while he also condemns "the unjustifiable violence" that causes suffering.

The Pope then offered his condolences to the Archbishop, to the family of the deceased "and to all the beloved people of Ecuador," inviting "citizens and political forces to unite in a common effort for peace". Entrusting Fernando Villavicencio's repose to the "maternal intercession of Our Lady of El Quinche," the Pope offered his apostolic blessing "as a sign of faith and hope in the Risen Christ."

Fernando Villavicencio, a journalist and centrist candidate for president of Ecuador, was murdered on the 9th of August in the capital Quito at the end of an election rally. He spoke out strongly against the power of gangs and cartels, and his murder has been claimed by local organized crime.
Source: Vatican News