AFRICA/GABON - “Dialogue has always been the basis for resolving conflict” say Catholic Bishops of Gabon after recent incidents of violence

Libreville (Fides Service)- “In our traditional society dialogue has always been the basis for resolving conflict. This is true also in modern society” the Catholic Bishops of Gabon affirm in a message addressed to “Christians, and men and women of good will in Gabon” released yesterday 18 January.
The Bishops express concern for incidents following a decision by the High Court to refuse the request made by the Opposition to invalidate the presidential election of 27 November 2005 which reconfirmed President Omar Bongo.
“For some weeks now there have been alarming reports of all kinds of violence: destruction of material goods, exaggerated reaction on the part of security forces etc...say the Bishops recalling their earlier statement issued on the eve of the election in which they urged the people to work to build peace.
In front of fresh violence the leaders of the Catholic Church in Gabon say they cannot “remain indifferent. And therefore we reaffirm that the end never justifies the means and that violence cannot solve the problems of our country; all the more because the victims are mainly innocent citizens”.
The Bishop say the path of dialogue is the only way to overcome the present difficulties in Gabon: “Dialogue means getting together and listening to the truth because no one has a monopoly on the truth. This should inspire every form of dialogue political or social”.
The Bishops conclude with a prayer for all the people of Gabon, “May the Spirit of God, Spirit of peace and reconciliation, live in your hearts!” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 19/1/2006 righe 26 parole 295)