La Paz, Bolivia, May 4, 2009 / 13:04 pm
A new parish being built in the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz was attacked for the second time last week by a group of activist residents. The activists are said to be linked to the Socialism Movement of President Evo Morales and to Igualitaria University, which is seeking to use the same terrain to expand its campus.
The president of the Union of Neighborhood Boards in the district, Jesus Alvarez, said residents are keeping watch over the area “day and night” to prevent the construction from being delayed, as local residents are anxious to see the parish completed.
Jose Luis Solis, who is managing the construction, said the work would continue despite the attacks, “since we have the support of the real neighbors.”
Edwin Grimaldos, general coordinator of the Igualitaria University, denied any connection to the attacks. “We have three areas where we can put our building,” he said.