Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Johannesburg (Agenzia Fides) - “For Democracy to live, we all need to participate. For Christian voters, this participation is a serious obligation,” this is how the South African Bishops are inviting local Catholics to prepare for the 2009 presidential elections, in a message to be read in all the churches, and which has been sent to Agenzia Fides. “Participation is not only about making your mark on Election Day, but also means that we need to participate in a responsible way in the preparations for the Election. For Christian voters, voting expresses our love and concern for our country and for the common good...”
The Bishops also hope that in the electoral campaign, the parties and candidates avoid “politically motivated hate speech, intimidation, violence and disruption,” that “kill democracy.” The Bishops continue: “People have different views and so they support different parties. For a democracy to live, we must tolerate the different views of others. A wide range of ideas and policies help us to see what might be best for our country and people. This will help us choose what is best for the common good of all. Not to respect the views of others and their right to support the party of their choice is unchristian and undemocratic. Violence or the threat of violence towards those who differ from us or to parties other than the one you support is unchristian and undemocratic.”
In the message, they mention that the vote should be made free from any kind of conditioning: “No one can tell you which party to vote for. Voting for a party just because you voted for it before or because your father or grandmother votes for it does not give life to our democracy. It might be tempting to vote for a party that serves your own interests or those of your social or economic group, but if other people will suffer because of your choice, you are not making a good choice.”
And what should be done to prepare to participate responsibly in the election? The Bishops suggest the participation in party meetings, where “where people can freely listen and discuss what is best for the country. You can also listen to the radio, watch television and read newspapers to find out more. Organizations such as Churches, Clubs, Societies and Associations can arrange these meetings.”
“Remember how the St Francis Prayer for Peace, prayed every day by individuals in many communities supported our struggle for democracy. Praying this prayer would be a powerful reminder of our responsibility to be instruments of Peace,” the Bishops said, in concluding their message. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 24/11/2008)
