Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) – “We ask all Venezuelans to participate actively in the life of the country, with decision, without violence, with respect for the constitution, legality, and rights for all people, rejecting whatever can lead to political conflict in upcoming elections,” say the members of the Venezuelan Bishops’ Conference in their statement issued yesterday, September 24, entitled “The good and peace of our people.” The elections are scheduled to take place on November 23.
The Bishops, concerned for the growing tensions that are revisiting the nation on the eve of elections, have sent out a message, in “rejection of all violence and intolerance against people, institutions, and the mass media.” The Bishops also speak out against the alleged conspiracies in the country: “...an attempt to assassinate the President as well as a conspiracy to overthrow the government, and we ask that investigations be carried out in these matters.” They also show their concern for “the apparent unconstitutionality of some articles of the laws declared on July 31...”
In response to this situation, the Bishops ask “all political actors, both the government and the opposition, to avoid whatever type of action can be a danger to the realization of elections.” They also call for a “respect for rights and guarantee of security for all those involved in the electoral campaign.” Addressing the National Electoral Council, they ask that they “guarantee the complete honesty in the vote, and equal opportunity for all candidates.” Lastly, they ask all Catholics and faithful of other religions to “pray with insistence to God for Venezuela, so that the future of our country may proceed on paths of freedom, justice, equality, tolerance, good, and peace.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 25/9/2008)
