Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Luanda (Agenzia Fides) – “We are glad to see that the date for elections this year, September 5, has finally been determined. As Pastors, we once again ask the faithful and all Angolans to participate with awareness and responsibility in the elections,” the Bishops of Angola said in a message regarding the upcoming legislative elections to be held on September 5, which are an important step in the process of the nation’s reconciliation following the civil war that ended in 2002.
In response to the lack of confidence on the part of some citizens regarding the honesty of the voting process, the Bishops remind them that “the right to vote is a civil, personal, and inalienable duty for every citizen. The decision rests upon their action, on both a federal and local level: in regards to the government entities, personnel, and programs for a healthy government, in a restoration of justice and peace, in the commitment to support democracy, authentic national reconciliation, Angola’s progress, and respect for human dignity.”
“The Church cannot favor any certain political party,” because its role is one of a “builder of harmony, a place where we can all love one another, can learn to love, and can adore the same God together, sharing the values of the Gospel that lead to the establishment of a more fraternal society.”
The Bishops mention that “the places of worship and the ecclesial structures are nonpartisan. As a result, they cannot be used for the distribution of any political promotional material, even if it is not explicit. Therefore, we ask that faithful to take care in not appearing in places of worship with symbols of political parties. For the same reason, signs of a political character should not be posted in places of worship and announcements should be restricted to religious and social affairs, such as vaccinations, student registration, etc.”
“Given the crucial role of the communications media in elections, we ask that journalists may present the information with impartiality and equality, respecting the truth, in order to help citizens to vote freely,” the message said. “Tolerance is the trademark of authentic democracy. Tolerance, in fact, implies the ability to understand and accept diversity and respect for others’ political opinions.”
The Bishops concluded with an invocation to the Virgin Mary: “In every parish and mission, let us pray to God through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Patroness of Angola, for the successful outcome of the elections.” (LM) (Agenzia Fides 17/7/2008)
