Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - Contrary to forecasts, in Sunday's referendum in Venezuela 'no' votes won by a small majority: votes against the reform were 2% higher than those in favour. The voting took place in a climate of tension, but with no major incidents: abstentions were 44.9 per cent. The President accepted the rejection of proposal to reform of 69 of the 350 articles in the Constitution of 1999, which would have given him the legal framework in which to install socialism and to be re-elected every seven years, with increased powers.
Archbishop Ubaldo Santana Sequera, president of the Venezuelan Bishops' Conference congratulated the country for the lesson of civic sense it gave during the referendum last Sunday, and he called all sectors of the nation to reconciliation. "The referendum results offer a new opportunity for the different sectors in Venezuela to build paths of collaboration, find ways to solve disputes and work together in a climate of reconciliation and peace" said Archbishop Santana Sequera and he continued “this day inspires us a continue to do our duty to work with all Venezuelans so we may live Christmas in tranquillity and in the new year build bonds between the different sectors". The Bishops' Conference is willing to promote dialogue and understanding between government and opposition.
Emeritus Archbishop Ovidio Pérez Morales of Los Teques and President of the Plenary Council of Venezuela, told Unión Radio that Sunday opened a new chapter in the history of the nation: a chapter which must be marked by the world “meeting”. “Venezuela cannot be the same, it must strive for this meeting" said Archbishop Pérez, who added that the meeting will enable people to "seek together with the existing differences between political, economic and cultural groups, progress and prosperity for our country".
He said the 'no' to the constitutional reforms expressed by the citizens of Venezuela means 'no' to hatred, division, clashes and 'yes' to peace and reconciliation". Recalling that the referendum coincided with the 1st Sunday of Advent, "the season of hope", he underlined the "importance of the message of the angels at Bethlehem announcing peace to all people of goodwill. Peace is what our country needs. The majority of the people wish to build a nation in peace and harmony without violence. Peace is not an attitude of courage or passivity, it is work, perseverance and effort to establish a firm foundation for the future of our country". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 4/11/2007; righe 35, parole 484)
