The SACBC, led by Bishop Sithembele Sipuka, emphasized the need for dialogue during their solidarity visit to Mozambique amidst concerns over electoral irregularities and police violence. The Bishops urged citizens to remain peaceful and called for political unity. They plan a National Day of Prayer for Peace and seek to maintain support for the Mozambican church’s efforts toward stability and reconciliation.
The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), led by Bishop Sithembele Anton Sipuka, conducted a significant two-day solidarity visit to Mozambique, emphasizing the necessity for dialogue amid increasing political tensions. Meeting with Mozambique’s Catholic Bishops and various religious leaders, they expressed grave concerns regarding reported electoral irregularities and the excessive use of force by police during recent elections. The Bishops advocated for peaceful expressions of dissatisfaction, urging citizens to seek non-violent means to assert their grievances.
During their visit, discussions were held with the Deputy Minister of Justice and representatives from the South African Embassy, recognizing the urgent need for a dialogue to address the prevailing crisis. Although time constraints limited interactions with political parties and civil society, Bishop Sipuka indicated that the visit magnified the pressing requirement for collaborative discussions amongst all stakeholders, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Furthermore, the Mozambican Bishops called for a National Day of Prayer for Peace on November 24, coinciding with the feast of Christ the King. The SACBC and the South African Council of Churches (SACC) pledged to remain engaged with the Mozambican church, facilitating ongoing support and determining future initiatives to promote peace. Bishop Sipuka articulated a call for the South African government to leverage its influence to encourage political unity for the benefit of Mozambique’s populace.
The recent visit by the Southern African Catholic Bishops was prompted by concerning reports regarding the electoral process in Mozambique, where allegations of irregularities and police brutality have emerged. This visit underscores the Church’s commitment to advocating for peaceful solutions and dialogues among various political and civil entities in Mozambique. Amidst these tensions, the call for a National Day of Prayer for Peace reflects the ecclesiastical leadership’s desire to foster unity and reconciliation within the nation. Architecture for dialogue and collaboration is being constructed through ongoing partnerships with local church and civil society leaders, enhancing the Church’s role in mediating peace.
The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ solidarity visit to Mozambique aptly highlighted the Church’s deep-seated commitment to fostering dialogue and advocating non-violence in response to political unrest. By encouraging citizens to express their dissent peacefully and urging political leaders to prioritize the common good, the Church plays a crucial role in striving for stability and peace within Mozambique. The planned National Day of Prayer for Peace symbolizes this ongoing pursuit of harmony and collaboration among all sectors of society.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
