Indonesian bishops ask Catholics to choose justice-minded president

Published: 2004-05-20

JAKARTA, Indonesia (CNS) -- Indonesian bishops have asked Catholics to vote in the coming presidential election for a candidate who will ensure justice, reduce poverty and improve the educational system. The Indonesian bishops' conference issued its "Pastoral Call Prior to 2004 Voting For President and Vice President" in early May, two months ahead of the July 5 first round of voting in the country's first direct presidential election. UCA News, an Asian church news agency based in Thailand, said the bishops' letter called for a more concrete democratic climate to serve as a basis for developing justice and peace, which in turn will allow people to work more diligently and honestly. Cardinal Julius Darmaatmadja of Jakarta, chairman of the bishops' conference, and Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo of Semarang, secretary-general, signed the letter, which was sent to all dioceses. The second round of elections is scheduled for Sept. 20.

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