Sergio Rojas is a renowned leader who works for the defense and recovery of land and autonomy for his people and all Costa Rican indigenous peoples, according to the National Indigenous Coordination of the country.

Real World Radio’s correspondent in Costa Rica, Henry Picado (member of COECOCEIBA – Friends of the Earth Costa Rica), said that the National Front of Indigenous Peoples (FRENAPI) is denouncing the attack against Rojas. The native leader is part of FRENAPI, as a promoter of indigenous rights in the communities.

The murder attempt took place after the Association for the Development of the Indigenous Territory of Salitre led the recovery of lands in the area that were granted by law to the native population but had been occupied by third parties.

On August 11, the Buenos Aires Municipal Council (local government) declared Rojas persona non grata after it was proven that members of that government were involved in the irregular occupation of lands by people who were not part of Salitre indigenous territory.

FRENAPI believes the attack against Rojas is another violent and racist event against indigenous communities and their organizations. The Front also calls to denounce this type of attacks and to demand these actions to be investigated to identify the people responsible for them.

The new incident took place in a context of violence against indigenous peoples that has been taking place since last year and that could be a precedent of even more violence, said FRENAPI.

Photo: COECOCEIBA – Friends of the Earth Costa Rica