Southern African Bishops demand that Mozambique’s authorities address public grievances from the disputed October elections, which have led to severe protests and fatalities. They express disappointment in the South African government for endorsing the results and appeal to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene. The Bishops also plan a solidarity visit to advocate for peace and national unity in Mozambique.
In a recent letter dated November 8, the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) has urged Mozambican authorities to address the grievances stemming from the contentious October 9 general elections. The Bishops emphasized the need for the authorities to respect the electorate’s will, particularly following widespread protests that have reportedly resulted in 30 deaths and numerous injuries. Bishop Sithembele Anton Sipuka, who signed the letter, calls for accountability and healing in a nation struggling with political unrest. They also extended their support and plan a solidarity visit to Mozambique, advocating for peace and unity within the governance framework.
Moreover, the Bishops expressed their disappointment over the South African government’s endorsement of the election results despite significant public dissatisfaction. They have appealed to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to engage with the fallout of the electoral process, as thousands of citizens protested in the capital, Maputo, expressing their discontent with the ruling party, Frelimo. The Catholic Bishops in Mozambique previously called for a reconciliation process among those involved in the electoral conflict, promoting truth and forgiveness as the path to restoring societal harmony.
The SACBC’s letter highlights the importance of establishing collaborative governance and the necessity for international and local institutions to assist with current and future electoral processes. As they prepare for their solidarity visit, the Bishops reaffirm their commitment to a peaceful Mozambique that embodies truth, tranquillity, and tolerance as essential pillars for the nation’s future.
The recent general elections in Mozambique have triggered significant unrest, with opposition parties and citizens contesting the legitimacy of the results that declared the ruling Frelimo party victorious. The dissatisfaction with the electoral process has manifested in protests across the country, with numerous casualties reported. The Southern African Bishops have intervened, recognizing the challenges faced by the Mozambican people and urging for a resolution that honors their democratic choices. This appeal reflects broader concerns within the Southern African region regarding electoral integrity and governance, as well as the responsibilities of both national authorities and international bodies like the SADC in ensuring peaceful and fair political processes.
In conclusion, the Southern African Bishops have called for urgent action from Mozambican authorities to address the widespread dissatisfaction following the recent elections, advocating for respect towards the people’s will and a healing dialogue among all parties involved. Their solidarity visit to Mozambique aims to reinforce their commitment to truth, peace, and governance reform, while urging regional bodies to respond to the unfolding crisis. The urgency of these issues underscores the necessity for inclusive governance and accountability to foster a stable future for Mozambique.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
