Vatican 'to ditch leftist bishop'

MEXICO CITY (AFP) - The bishop of San Cristobal, who is mediating in the talks between the government and Zapatista rebels, may be forced to step down.

Vatican sources said Church officials have already written a letter calling for Bishop Samuel Ruiz to leave his diocese, citing 'errors in doctrine and teaching,' El Financiero reported.

Bishop Ruiz has long advocated rights for Indians in the poor southern state and has been accused of inciting dissent.