A committee representing various faiths in the country has called on all presidential candidates and members of the public to be peaceful during the campaigning and election period and show respect for each other’s opinions.
SNP candidate Wavel Ramkalawan (photo left) and independent candidate Philippe Boullé are presented with a copy of the proclamation by members of the committee
This was after members of the inter-faith committee had met President James Michel at State House yesterday to give their joint proclamation to the nation for the coming election. Mr Michel is also the Parti Lepep candidate for the May 19-21 presidential election.
Earlier this week the inter-faith committee also gave its proclamation to presidential candidate of the Seychelles National Party Wavel Ramkalawan and Independent candidate Philippe Boullé.
The committee is expected to meet the New Democratic Party candidate Ralph Volcère next week.
Members of the committee who called on Mr Michel yesterday represent the Roman Catholic diocese, Anglican Church, Grace and Peace Baptist Church, Hindu Council, Pentecostal Church and the Seventh Day Adventist.
Anglican Bishop James Wong said all presidential candidates are taking the proclamation seriously.
“It is our responsibilities as spiritual leaders to give the nation direction so that they can go through this election in peace.”
All religions can contribute to ensure that their congregation understands the call for peace.
The Grace & Peace Baptist Church representative Robert Moumou has called on members of the public to make wise decisions when they cast their vote.
“The people should not let themselves be influenced by bribes during the campaigning period but rather make justifiable decisions for the benefit of our country and its future.”
It is also vital for everybody to respect each other’s political opinions, Mr Moumou said.
In a statement issued after the meeting yesterday, President Michel thanked the committee for the proclamation as an example of the unity of diversity of the Seychellois people and the different faiths which are practiced.
“We are a maturing democracy and we need to campaign responsibly in order to let the people decide for the future.
You will have my support to work together to ensure this happens,” the statement quoted Mr Michel as saying during the meeting.
The President said the proclamation corresponds to the vision he has for ethical campaigning, referring to his recent proposal to the electoral commissioner for a committee to be set up to ensure that campaigning is conducted according to agreed principles and values.
Source: Seychelles Nation
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