Defensa de los fundamentos politos y legales de la resolución de noviembre 27 eceptuando de impuesto el templo presbiteriano

Abstract

This image contains news about the fact that in forum number 39 an extensive article has been published refuting a government resolution that exempts the building of the Reformed Church of the Presbyterian Rite in this city from paying contributions, equating it to Catholic temples. The governor's order has been received to explain the legal and political foundations of that resolution objectively. Below, the arguments that criticize the resolution as arbitrary are presented in an improved manner. First of all, it is argued that according to the current law of August 13, all real estate of a certain value must contribute to the state treasury, including temples of any religion. Although temples are not subject to commerce, it is argued that the exception should be established by the legislator and not by the executive branch. The ability of the executive branch to interpret laws in a generally mandatory manner is questioned, suggesting that by doing so in this case it exceeded its powers and could be punished under the penal code. Furthermore, the difference between interpreting the law and defining the meaning of its terms for its application arises. The lack of consensus in the inclusion of churches, cemeteries and municipal houses in the cadastres during the last 15 years is criticized, regardless of the political affiliation of the officials involved. News published in the Cundinamarca newspaper, No. 53, December 14, 1869.