Bishops in Sierra Leone condemn violence before presidential runoff

Published: 2007-09-06

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone (CNS) -- Catholic bishops in Sierra Leone have condemned the violence leading up to the presidential runoff election. "We condemn all persons who by their acts or conduct foment sentiments of tribalism and regionalism as a means of gaining political power," the bishops said. They said the elections were a testing ground to see how much the nation had cultivated a culture of peace, nonviolence and respect for the law. "Riotous acts of indiscipline, retaliation, destruction, violence and disrespect for the rule of law are sinful and inadmissible practices," they added. The bishops urged the people of Sierra Leone to "submit to God," strive for unity, show respect for each others' rights and disregard divisive ethnic sentiments. They called on people to pray for a "God-fearing president and Parliament." Of seven political parties in the Aug. 11 elections, two emerged with the highest votes. Since no candidate got at least 55 percent of the vote as required by law, a runoff was scheduled for Sept. 8.

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