Anglican Bishop Elizabeth Calls for Peace and Respect Ahead of Elections
VICTORIA, Seychelles — With the election dates fast approaching, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese, the Right Reverend Danny Elizabeth, has issued a message urging all citizens to maintain peace and respect. In his message, Bishop Elizabeth said an election determines the outcome of a shared responsibility to elect leaders who will govern and live by the pillars of democracy.
‘It is important that we maintain peace and respect in the days leading up to the election. The diverse views expressed during the campaign must be seen as options to attract voters rather than tools to divide the nation. Human dignity and social justice are priorities for voters. Political leaders will dialogue with voters directly or indirectly through their manifesto. Voting recognises the equality of all people and their right to speak and be heard,’ he said, citing Deuteronomy 10:17-19.
Bishop Elizabeth added that the decision made on election day is personal and that conscience must be clear and true. ‘There must be no regret after casting our vote. The spirit of truth must lead every person to make the best and morally right decision. Our decision makes a difference on how the country should be governed. It is like the grain of salt that must not lose its saltiness,’ he said, citing Matthew 5:13.
He concluded by urging Seychellois to see the election as a call for stability, prosperity and peace. ‘After the election, life continues. Our social fabric is fragile and there must be a spirit of respect following the announcement of the results. There must be maturity from leaders and voters,’ he said, calling for reconciliation and unity as the nation moves forward, ‘blessed by God’.
