Bishop Ruiz resigned recently as a mediator in the talks.

Some Vatican officials believe that Bishop Ruiz has gone too far.

Bishop Ruiz has been the principal mediator between the rebels and the Government.

Bishop Ruiz has been a leader in the struggle to protect indigenous rights.

Bishop Ruiz has repeatedly denied having any ties to the Zapatistas.

Bishop Ruiz has said he supports groups that work to improve the lot of the Indians but does not back any armed organization.

At least one rebel said later that her statements had been fabricated, and Bishop Ruiz did not directly address the account.

Ever since then, Chanal leaders have told the diocese that they want Bishop Ruiz to stay away.

The next day, the mediating committee led by Bishop Ruiz insisted that the peace effort had not been interrupted.

Government officials have accused Bishop Ruiz of being partial to the Zapatistas.