In a statement released today, the secretary-general of the bishops' conference, Father Paul Morana Sandi, wrote: "The memories of our recent past imposes upon all of us the responsibility to respect the democratic process underway in Sierra Leone. Elections are means through which civilized nations choose those who should govern and direct the future of their countries."
The statement said that the elections are a "testing ground" to determine "how much we have cultivated a culture of peace, nonviolence and respect for the rule of law."
"We must respect civilized methods of electing leaders," the prelates urged. And they called on Sierra Leoneans to "disregard any call that arouses tribal and regional sentiments [and] to work together for the common good in order to build a better future for our country."
Sierra Leone is recovering from an 11-year civil war that began in 1991. Saturday's run-off election for president was called after none of the seven contenders won the required majority in the Aug. 11 elections.
ZE07090603 - 2007-09-06