Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kinshasa (Fides Service) - In a joint appeal the religious leaders of Democratic Congo encouraged the country’s politicians to conclude the period of transition and lead the country to democracy. The memorandum was signed by Christians of various confessions and Muslims. Archbishop Mosengwo Pasinya of Kisagani, also President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, signed on behalf of the local Catholic community. “We wish to congratulate you for the happy conclusion of political negotiations and the signing of a global and inclusive agreement for the cessation of hostilities which devastated the country since August 1998” the religious leaders tell political leaders in the memorandum.
The religious leaders say “the sense of duty and respect for commitments which marked the period of transition was deeply appreciated by the people of Congo” while stressing that several problems must still be solved in view of lasting peace. “While the good start of the transition period gave rise to hope among our people, the return of tension in the east with the occupation of Bukavu provoked deep unrest. What is more the massacre at Gatumba where our compatriots who had sought shelter in Burundi were killed under tragic circumstances, caused another crisis which threatened to sink the transition”. The religious leaders recognise that South African President Thabo Mbeki “helped effectively to solve the crisis and re-launch the transition”. (with regard to Gatumba see Fides 3 September 2004)
“The progress made by the transition, demonstrates that you are able to fulfil your duty with loyalty to your country. Your duties are heavy and your responsibilities are enormous but out of love for Congo, you succeeded in overcoming your differences. On behalf of the Congolese people who have already suffered too much, we ask you to double your efforts for reconciliation” the religious leaders say offering some guidelines. “You must have one goal, to lead the people to democracy. You must have one programme to alleviate the people’s hardship, help them find their dignity and to enjoy the riches of the land of their forefathers. If you do this the people will be grateful to you for ever. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 29/10/2004 righe 39 parole 394)
