Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy asserts that elections are crucial for building loving communities, especially as Cameroon approaches its presidential elections. He emphasizes the Church’s role in guiding the voter education process, advocating for transparency and the common good. Mbuy highlights the historic contributions of the Church to democracy and stresses the need for informed civic engagement to achieve peaceful electoral outcomes.
In Cameroon, Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy, a prominent priest, emphasizes the vital role elections play in fostering a community of love, a key aim of the Church. As the nation gears up for the presidential election scheduled for October, Mbuy asserts the importance of electing candidates who prioritize the common good. The potential candidacy of long-serving President Paul Biya, who is 92 years old, raises significant concerns about the political future of Cameroon.
The possibility of an eighth term for President Biya, who has held power since 1982, is met with apprehension due to his advanced age and health. Any candidate from the ruling CPDM party may face formidable opponents such as Prof. Maurice Kamto, who, with support from a coalition of 30 political parties, advocates for improved health and education services. Mbuy believes the Church must guide voters to make informed decisions during this crucial election period.
Citing Pope Francis, Mbuy highlights that participating in politics represents a significant expression of charity as it aims to achieve the common good. He asserts that the Church has a pivotal role in educating the populace about their civic responsibilities, particularly regarding the electoral processes. This includes mentoring individuals about registration, voting, and ensuring a transparent counting and proclamation of results.
Mbuy recalls the Church’s historical involvement in promoting democracy globally, noting landmarks such as the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace’s publication of the Church’s social doctrine in 2004. He also points out the proactive stance of bishops and other Church leaders in guiding voters through pastoral letters addressing key electoral issues in different countries.
Recognizing recurring themes in bishops’ letters on elections globally, Mbuy identifies four main points: educating citizens about their civic duties, urging them to select candidates focused on the common good, advocating for transparency and fairness in elections, and calling for peace throughout the electoral process. He stresses that Church leaders operate as moral guides for the community’s active engagement in politics, emphasizing peace and stability.
Mbuy underscores the necessity for citizens to be enlightened about their rights and responsibilities concerning the electoral process, noting that many remain unaware of their civic obligations. The Church, as a vital entity in society, must act as an educator, nurturing an understanding of the moral importance of free and fair elections. Through these efforts, the Church hopes to fulfill its mission of building loving communities based on shared values and principles.
Father Mbuy articulates the Church’s essential role in guiding Cameroonians in the forthcoming elections, advocating for informed participation in the political process. By emphasizing education on civic duty, support for the common good, and the importance of transparent electoral practices, he reinforces the Church’s commitment to fostering peace and love within society. Ultimately, free and fair elections are seen as foundational to achieving the Church’s broader goal of nurturing a community of love.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
