Pope Francis is currently hospitalized and critically ill, dealing with double pneumonia. His tenure has been met with scrutiny over his actions during Argentina’s ‘Dirty War,’ specifically accusations of complicity in the disappearances of two Jesuit priests. Despite his denials and a clarification of his position, these accusations continue to influence his papacy as he advocates for social issues while battling health concerns.
Pope Francis remains in critical health, having suffered a coughing fit that required mechanical ventilation due to inhaling vomit. The Vatican announced his hospitalization for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since mid-February. Doctors expect to assess his condition within the next 24-48 hours, while the Pope remains alert and cooperative with his recovery process. His twelve-year papacy has been marked by progressive stances on social issues, drawing followers from across various faiths.
During his election in 2013, however, Pope Francis faced scrutiny regarding his actions during Argentina’s ‘Dirty War,’ a campaign by the military government targeting dissenters. The regime, which ruled from 1976 to 1983, was responsible for the disappearance and deaths of 10,000 to 30,000 individuals, and it established a system of secret prisons that led to widespread human rights violations. The public outcry against these abuses grew, particularly through the advocacy of the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo.
One of the major accusations against then-Father Jorge Mario Bergoglio was his alleged complicity in the disappearances of two Jesuit priests, Orlando Yorio and Francisco Jalics, who were arrested and tortured in 1976. Critics claimed he failed to protect them, while Father Jalics later remarked he had reconciled with the events and held no blame towards the Pope. The Vatican has categorically denied any wrongdoing on Bergoglio’s part.
Pope Francis’s relationship with political figures such as former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner was fraught with tensions, as she accused him of political bias. In a recent conversation, the Pope defended his actions during the dictatorship era, stating, “The situation (during the dictatorship) was really very confused and uncertain… in the end my innocence was established.” He alleged that the government sought to undermine him through fabricated charges.
In summary, Pope Francis’ health remains critical as he battles pneumonia, and his papacy continues to be overshadowed by historical accusations related to Argentina’s Dirty War. The controversy surrounding his early career raises critical discussions about accountability during political suppression. Despite these challenges, the Pope has maintained his commitment to progressive values and clarified his historical stance amidst persistent criticisms.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
