Fatshimetrie, edition of July 15, 2024 – In an official press release, the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) recently reminded ecclesiastics of the formal ban on granting the floor to political actors during religious celebrations. The decision followed an incident during a religious service where rebel leader Corneille Nangaa spoke, sparking heated controversy.
The Secretary General of CENCO, Mgr Donatien Nshole, stressed that this is a measure aimed at preserving the neutrality of religious institutions and guaranteeing social cohesion. Indeed, the decree in force since 2010 explicitly prohibits ecclesiastics from using religions for political purposes, in order to protect the independence of the Church and avoid any exploitation of the faith for partisan purposes.
In the current context of security tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, CENCO calls for national unity and consultation between the different forces in the country. The objective is to strengthen national solidarity and to form a united front in the face of the challenges and threats weighing on the nation.
This development by CENCO comes in a particularly tense political and social context, marked by divisions and internal conflicts. Faced with these issues, the Catholic Church positions itself as an actor of peace and reconciliation, recalling the importance of preserving the integrity of places of worship and promoting dialogue and fraternity between communities.
In conclusion, CENCO’s position on the ban on giving political actors the floor during religious celebrations demonstrates its desire to preserve the neutrality and independence of the Church, while encouraging national unity and solidarity. . This recommendation is part of a process of dialogue and construction of a more just and peaceful Congolese society, where faith and political action remain distinct and complementary for the well-being of all.
This article highlights the importance of the separation between the religious and political spheres, to guarantee social cohesion and preserve the integrity of institutions.