AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE - "Abandon arms and follow the path of dialogue" ask the Bishops

Maputo (Agenzia Fides) - The Episcopal Conference of Mozambique (EMC) expresses its concern due to the "continuous deterioration" of the political and military situation in the country and calls on the government and Renamo to abandon weapons. In their appeal, sent to Fides, the Bishops call for "the unconditional surrender of arms" and "to follow the path of dialogue between the parties in conflict" with the involvement of civil society. The declaration comes after the recent fighting between the armed forces in Mozambique and the guerrillas of the largest opposition party.
The Mozambican Bishops deplore "the inconsistency between what is said and what is done", calling for "respect for differences" and gestures to promote peace and reconciliation. According to the Bishops it is necessary to listen to "the families of the victims", the displaced and the victims of the crisis.
Renamo refused to recognize the results of the general elections of 15 October 2014 (see Fides 20/10/2014) and claim the right to rule in six provinces, and has also threatened to take power with force.
The last few weeks have been marked by clashes between the parties, during a police operation that led to the seizure of weapons belonging to Renamo in Morrumbala. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 11/11/2015)

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