Catholic Bishops’ Conference calls for a free and fair election

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka (CBCSL), in a statement issued, urged all Catholics and citizens to exercise their sacred and democratic right to cast their vote at the forthcoming election.

 

The media release states, “As the election approaches, what seems to be needed is to focus on the major issues facing the nation as a whole which require urgent solutions to be sought with genuine political will and determination. Therefore, at every level, violence must be eschewed both before and after the elections.

 

The CBCSL urged all political parties to refrain from casting aspersions on candidates and their parties and instead carry out a debate to educate the people on each one’s policies to help them make an informed decision when casting their vote. 

 

The release states, “Given the fact that the visit of the Holy Father Pope Francis is to take place soon after the elections, we urge those responsible to ensure a peaceful atmosphere for the Papal Visit so that the spiritual programme which has been planned could be carried our undisturbed.” The CBCSL also requested that all candidates refrain from using the visit of the Pope to gain political mileage. 

 

"The CBCSL wishes to appeal to all those concerned to maintain the principles of democracy and absolute transparency which are necessary to conduct a free and fair election. It is extremely important that there be an atmosphere of freedom to express differing views on matters of policy regarding issues confronting the country, if there is to be a free and fair election. Whoever is elected should ensure that the rule of law is maintained in the country and the necessary constitutional and legal changes are made in order to ensure that Sri Lanka becomes a true participatory democracy. We also expect a stronger commitment towards establishing peace and reconciliation in the country so that all citizens of the land could live with dignity and equality.

 

Accordingly the CBCSL urges all Catholics and citizens to exercise their sacred and democratic right to cast their vote at the forthcoming election" the statement further stated.