Pope urges DRC leaders to heed the suffering of their
people
People walk near burning debris protests in Kinshasa,DRC. - AP. |
(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis has appealed to all people of
the Democratic Republic of Congo to be artisans of
reconciliation and peace.
The Pope’s heartfelt appeal came at the end of his weekly
General Audience in the Paul VI Hall.
Remarking on the fact that he has recently met with the
President and Vice President of the Bishops’ Conference of the DRC, Francis
said “I renew my heartfelt appeal to all Congolese so that in this delicate
moment of their history, may they be artisans of reconciliation and peace”.
“May those, the Pope continued, who are in positions
of political responsibility listen to the voice of their conscience, learn to
see the cruel sufferings of their fellow citizens and have at heart the common
good”.
The Pope assured the beloved people of DRC of his
support and love, and he invited them to let themselves be guided by the light
of the Redeemer of the world.
“I pray that the birth of the Lord may open paths of hope”
he said.
The Pope's appeal came as political violence flares in the
DRC.
UN officials say over 20 people have been killed in rencent
hours in clashes between protesters and security forces in the capital,
Kinshasa, over President Joseph Kabila's failure to give up power.
Kabila's 15-year rule was due to have ended on Monday at
midnight, but has been extended to 2018. The President's main rival said the
refusal to give up power amounted to a coup.
The electoral commission cancelled elections that were
scheduled for last month, citing logistical and financial difficulties in
organising them.
Kabila has now formed a 74-member transitional government to
lead the vast central African state until elections are held in 2018.
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét