AFRICA/CENTRAL AFRICA - "Signs of hope but still too much violence, also due to the strong movement of weapons", say the Bishops

Wednesday, 14 January 2015

Bangui (Agenzia Fides) - "The Muslim and Christian communities are beginning to talk to each other and seek peace" say the Bishops of the Central African Republic in their message entitled "Therefore choose life" published on January 10 at the end of their Plenary Assembly (see Fides 13/01/2015).
In the document the Bishops note that compared to their last meeting held in June 2013 the security situation has improved thanks to the deployment of local forces and the UN Mission in Central Africa (MINUSCA).
The message also praised the re-establishment of public administration in some places and the "spiritual awakening" of different believers, where violence did not prevail over faith, but rather strengthened it. Faith that is expressed in concrete gestures of solidarity and hospitality towards numerous IDPs.
The Bishops, however, complain that there are still many difficulties to be faced. First of all violence, despite the improvement of general security, still affects different parts of the Country, including the same capital, Bangui. Violence which is often caused by "unconventional armed groups that continue to recruit young people who take drugs, using them against peace, unity and the common good. These militias occupy sections of the country who submit to terror and plunder".
The Bishops denounce that "people accused of witchcraft are buried alive on the basis of mere allegations through the abominable practice of popular justice. (...). The strong movement of firearms has helped to arouse this new culture of violence and death".
To address these issues the Bishops launch an appeal for peace and reconciliation, urging the concrete commitment of all: young people and parents; those belonging to armed groups (who are asked to lay down their weapons and integrate into society); politicians and the international community. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 14/01/2015)


Share: