AMERICA/VENEZUELA - Catholic religious concerned: people have not been given enough time to understand contents and implications of the proposed constitutional reforms

Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - "For Justice, Peace and Hope" is the title of a statement issued at the end of a meeting of Catholic men and women Religious of Venezuela who express "concern in the national situation and proposals with regard to certain fundamental aspects". The Religious are concerned because of "growing violence, heated arguments, national division, and everything to do with holding a referendum on Proposed Constitutional Reforms". They say people have not been given enough time to understand the contents and implications of the Reform, A proposal which, the Religious warn, "would make substantial changes in the Constitution approved in 1999". Moreover it, "establishes a model of a country with one thought from which a greater part of Venezuelans would be excluded". On the other hand the Reform "will concentrate power and political decisions in the hands of the President", violating "participated democracy sanctioned by the present Constitution.
For a referendum "people must be fully informed of the contents of the Proposed Constitutional Reforms and the implications of its approval", if they are to vote "according to their conscience and assume the consequences of their decision". The men and women Religious of Venezuela say they are in communion with the country and with the Bishops and proclaim the right to "dissent and free expression, with respect and recognition of the dignity of every person". The Religious men and women express their hope, “for reconciliation and dialogue to create harmony among all Venezuelans”, and confirm their commitment to spend their lives to build a Venezuela where every citizen is included and live in justice and peace. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 21/11/2007; righe 21, parole 289)