Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Colombo (Fides Service) - No to a climate of conflict and intolerance; yes to a process of peace which includes all political and social subjects and guarantees the good of the whole nation: this appeal was launched by the Catholic Bishops of Sri Lanka in an open letter issued in view of presidential elections on 17 November.
The Bishops encourage all citizens to examine the programmes of the candidates in the light of the common good and to note those which defend the rights and freedoms of ethnic and religious minorities. The Bishops note with concern spreading religious fundamentalism and urge the different communities to follow criteria of tolerance, dialogue, openness, recalling the question of the anti-conversion law, a matter debated by politicians all through this year.
“The next presidential mandate - the letter reads- will be decisive to put the country on the path to peace”. “The new president will have to take courageous steps to find a solution to this national question. There must be an immediate end to the vicious circle of violence which is destroying the north and east of the Island and is a serious threat to the fragile cease fire agreement”.
The Bishops call on the new President to take all points of view into consideration when dealing with the peace process. “We say it is urgent for all religions and all ethnic communities to have the opportunity to take part in the peace process”.
With regard to participation in political life the Bishops recall that this is part of the duty to promote the common good and guarantee the fundamental rights and freedoms of every person. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 31/10/2005 righe 24 parole 287)
