Southern African Bishops Urge Mozambique to Resolve Election Grievances

The Southern African Bishops have called for the Mozambican authorities to address dissent following the controversial elections won by Frelimo. Their November 8 letter urges respect for the people’s will, denounces violence during protests, and appeals to SADC for intervention. In light of continued unrest, they advocate for collaboration and truth as pathways to restoring peace in Mozambique.

The Southern African Bishops have urged the Mozambican authorities to address grievances stemming from the recent general elections held on October 9, which resulted in a decisive victory for the ruling party, Frelimo. In a letter dated November 8, Bishop Sithembele Anton Sipuka, president of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference, emphasized the need to respect the will of the Mozambican populace amid widespread discontent. The Bishops’ statement follows a surge of protests in which at least 30 individuals lost their lives after the election results were contested.

The Bishops also called upon the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene and address the growing unrest, urging all parties involved in the electoral process to acknowledge their roles in the ensuing conflict. They advocated for the establishment of a collaborative governance framework and the exploration of a national unity government to pave the way for stability in Mozambique. As they express solidarity with the affected communities, they reiterated the importance of truth and peace in the nation’s future.

This situation in Mozambique has unfolded after the October 9 elections, which have led to widespread allegations of irregularities and public outcry against the authorities’ handling of the electoral process. The resulting protests have culminated in violent demonstrations that reflect the deep-seated frustrations among the populace regarding perceived injustices. The Bishops’ call for intervention from regional bodies signals a pressing need for mediator engagement as Mozambique grapples with its political unrest.

In conclusion, the Southern African Bishops have made a clarion call for the Mozambican government to take accountability for recent electoral grievances and to prioritize peace and unity in the country. Their emphasis on collaboration and forgiveness highlights a potential pathway toward normalcy amidst ongoing tensions, underscoring the necessity for regional support to achieve durable resolution and tranquility in Mozambique.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va