Only a miracle can save three Indonesians from the firing squad
Palu (AsiaNews) Mgr Joseph Suwatan, bishop of Manado, is still praying "for a miracle" as the execution of three Catholics sentenced to death in Palu, Central Sulawesi province, gets nearer.
In an interview with 'Aid to the Church in Need', a charitable organisation established under Pontifical Law that is involved in defending religious freedom around the world, the prelate insisted on hoping for a miracle that might save the lives of Fabianus Tibo, Dominggus da Silva and Marinus Riwa.
The three men were tried and convicted for their role in the 2000 sectarian clashes in Poso. Their execution had originally been scheduled for August 12 but was stayed at the last minute following international criticism and an appeal by the Pope.
The bishop of Manado, whose diocese covers Poso, said that the three men's trial was full of irregularities. The judges who handed down the sentence refused to hear new witnesses who might have vindicated the defendants.
"We condemn this execution and continue to say there is new evidence. There should be more time to find the truth," the bishop said. "A miracle is still possible and for this reason we must continue to pray".
Hopes aside, the prelate believes that the climate has changed over the last month. The anger among Muslim extremists over the Pope's speech in Germany, which was not mollified by his explanation, has turned up the heat. Those who wanted Tibo and fellow inmates dead [a month ago] now want it even more. And the authorities want the issue settled once and for all before the beginning of Ramadan."
If the death penalty is carried out, sectarian clashes might follow in the province.
Thousands of police officers have already been deployed in the most sensitive locations, whilst protests and prayers continue.
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