Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kinshasa (Fides Service) - The Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo does not intend to give instructions with regard to voting in the referendum on the Constitution on 18 December. However Church structures involved in preparation and organisation of the referendum would seem to indicate a yes vote according to the local Catholic news agency DIA.
With regard to its leaflet “Information on the draft constitution” CARTEC (Catholic body for successful transition period), set up by the Catholic Bishops of Congo, explains “This pedagogical guide on the Draft Constitution is indispensable for the development of democracy in our country” CARTEC is not is not an instrument of propaganda , it is neither for nor against the Constitution.
The leaflet uses simple words to help the people know more about the choice in question. In the introduction Se Marie-Bernard Alima Mbalula, secretary of the Bishops’ Justice and Peace Commission says: “Both answers call for knowledge of the weaknesses present which may need final revision in the case of a ‘yes’ victory or a the drafting of a new constitution in the case of a ‘no’”. The nun gives reasons for adopting the draft constitution. First of all Sr Marie-Bernard Alima Mbalula says that to reject the draft would mean prolonging the stage of transition and the risk “creating a juridical void if the new constitution is not ready by 30 June 2006”. Other considerations in favour of a ‘yes’ vote are: expense of another referendum, when already “50% of this referendum are funded from abroad”; national security; the impoverished condition of the country cannot wait ulterior delay in the process of transition.
CEPAS (Centre Studies for Social Action ) run by the Jesuits at the end of a seminar on the draft Constitution said it was in favour of approving the text because a ‘yes’ vote will mean the process of transition goes ahead and will end on 30 June 2006. Whereas a “no” vote would start endless discussion”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 9/12/2005 righe 36 parole 421)
