The Senegalese bishops, concerned about the current social and political climate, warn of the dangers of division and violence. They appeal to reason, restraint and responsibility, and invite all actors to promote peace and social equity. They also remind young people of the importance of respect for human life and community values.
The celebration of the 135th edition of the Pilgrimage of Popenguine had as its theme: “How is it given to me that the mother of my Lord comes to me? (Lk 1:43). During the exchanges, the religious men expressed their concerns about the current situation in the country. “The Bishops are very concerned about the social and political climate that currently prevails in our country, especially with the events we have been experiencing since yesterday. They deplore the many human victims as well as all acts of destruction of public and private property, in a climate of fear and insecurity,” reads a press release.
In the same vein, reports the note, they alert all fellow citizens to the dangers of division and violence. And also remind everyone of the duty to build and develop our country, together, in peace, loyalty and mutual respect. This is why they call for “reason, restraint and responsibility. Bishops say ‘no to violence! Yes to Peace’ for the present and the future of our Nation.
Thus, “they invite all political, social and economic actors, as well as religious guides, to put forward the general interest, to promote justice, truth, peace and equity. society, in their words and in their actions. Because, they continue, the Constitution of our Country guarantees freedom of expression to all. This is why, however, they recall the duty of speaking out truthfully, respectfully, responsibly and constructively.
“To the young people of our Country, living forces of our Nation, the Bishops send a message of hope, so that they do not give in to despair, nor to manipulation, to the point of burning, ransacking and destroying the property belonging to others. and to the community. They invite them, as well as all fellow citizens, to a return to values, in particular respect for human life, the promotion of the common good and peace,” the document continues.