Central African Republic: Bishops denounce 'planned destruction of churches'

Central African Republic

Attacks on Christian communities in the Central African Republic have increased dramatically since the coming to power of the rebel leader Michel Djotodia, who proclaimed himself President of the Republic on 24 March, church leaders warned this week.

The message from the Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace, says that since Djotodia took power after the rebel coalition Seleka conquered the capital, Bangui, violence and looting against civilians and Christian communities have multiplied, while in the country, "an unhealthy climate " has been established, favoured by the "absence of administration, and the violations of constitutional and human rights."

The document, signed by Mgr Albert Vanbuel, Bishop of Kaga-Bandoro and President of Justice and Peace, said the Church denounces "a rebellion characterized by religious extremism, by the evil intentions for the programmed and planned desecration and destruction of religious Christian buildings, and in particular the Catholic and Protestant churches."

"All over the country the Catholic Church has paid a high price.. Some dioceses such as Kaga-Bandoro, Bambari, Alindao, Bangassou and Bossangoa have been seriously damaged. A rebellion in search of easy prey has caused serious consequences for the population "

Some priests and religious women have been attacked in recent months. The document appeals for a national dialogue to get the country from the brink of violence and closer to the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Source: Fides