Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangui (Agenzia Fides) – Fr. Bernard Kinvi, camillian, was honoured with the Alison Des Forges award, because he distinguished himself in defending the rights of man.
Fr.Bernard offered protection and assistance to hundreds of Muslims who risked being killed by anti-Balaka militias, in the mission of Bossemptélé in the North-West of the Central African Republic, 300 km from the capital Bangui.
"We made the choice to stay in January 2014 when the civil war broke out", said the religious. The choice of Fr. Bernard, his confrere Brice Patrick and of the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese of Turin, however, was not accepted by the anti-Balaka militias.
"Many people wanted to kill Muslims, seen as enemies. I strongly opposed. All the Catholic mission opposed", says Fr. Bernard. The religious hopes that the award given "serves to make it clear to the world that in Central Africa, several priests, religious and other Christians have protected Muslims. To say that this is not a sectarian war but political".
"This award is an appeal for peace and reconciliation. I invite my Central African brothers and sisters to join and work for peace and development in our Country", concluded the religious. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 18/09/2014)
