AFRICA/CONGO - Clashes for the referendum on the third presidential term, the Bishops had long called for dialogue

Brazzaville (Agenzia Fides) - At least four people have died and a dozen injured: is the toll of the violent demonstrations that took place yesterday, 20 October, in the two major cities of the Republic of Congo, the capital, Brazzaville, and Pointe-Noire.
Protesters took to the streets to demonstrate against the ban to hold rallies against the referendum on Sunday 25th October on the constitutional amendment to allow President Denis Sassou Nguesso for election in 2016 for a third term. The current Constitution provides for only two presidential terms.
The Country has been experiencing tension related to the referendum for weeks, which is seen by the opposition as a way to perpetuate the power of Nguesso. On October 4 the Bishops had launched an appeal "to the faithful and to all Congolese" so that "there are no actions and behaviors that would pave the way for violence and undermine peace".
The message, signed by Mgr. Daniel Mizonzo, Bishop of Nkayi and President of the Episcopal Conference of Congo, launched an appeal "to political forces and civilians to avoid all forms of violence, to exercise constant vigilance on any troublemakers, and respect the provisions of the 'Basic Law' in terms of demonstrations, so that everyone can express their views. In short, the debate has to be carried out with dignity, honesty, non-violence, always favoring dialogue. Yes dialogue, dialogue and more dialogue". "Congolese! We do not have a short memory. Let's save our young democracy. Safeguard peace purchased at a high price", the Bishops conclude. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 21/10/2015)

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