Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Brasilia (Agenzia Fides) – The Bishops' Conference of Brazil (CNBB), in an official statement, congratulated the President-elect of Brazil, Dilma Rousseff, who won the elections Sunday, October 31 with 56 percent of the vote. The bishops also asked that she work with "fidelity in fulfilling election promises" and not to promote any bill in favor of abortion, any law that goes against the family (such as homosexual unions), or threaten the religious freedom in the country.
“After the elections, the commitment of everyone is to join efforts in building a Brazil with peace, social justice, and life for all. May each of those elected feel the responsibility of fully living up to the expectations and trust of not only their voters, but that of the entire Brazilian nation,” the text of the CNBB says.
In the note sent to Fides, the bishops also greet the Brazilian people, whom they ask to accompany the new authorities. They also pray to God, that He will accompany those who have been elected by giving them "wisdom to always make the best decisions for the good of our people." The note concludes by imploring the blessing of Our Lady of Aparecida for all concerned.
Dilma Rousseff has become the first female President of Brazil. With around 56% of the vote, “Lula's dauphin” surpassed the votes for Social Democrat Jose Serra. The results of the elections, which involved 135 million voters, demonstrate that the country has opted for continuity of the progressive left embodied by the outgoing leader. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 03/11/2010)
