In their January 5 collective statement issued at the end of their three-day meeting in the Archdiocese of Cotonou, CEB members congratulate the government of Benin for the initiatives undertaken to “improve the daily lives of our people.”
“This is reflected, among other things, in the decision to increase the salaries of state employees,” the Catholic Church leaders say, and add, “This is an encouraging step that deserves to be welcomed.”
The second Ordinary Session of the Catholic Bishops in Benin examined issues relating to ecclesial, social, political, and security.
In their January 5 collective statement, CEB members renewed their call for legislative elections that need to be “free, transparent, truly inclusive and peaceful.”
“We, the Bishops of Benin pray for a good outcome of the elections,” CEB members say about legislative elections scheduled to take place on January 8, and add, “We renew our call for a transparent, truly inclusive, democratic, and peaceful electoral process.”
The Catholic Church leaders also urge “all the sons and daughters of Benin, whatever their political affiliation, to work for justice, peace and national unity by putting general interest above particular interests.”
“We invite all Catholics, as well as all men and women of goodwill, to fast and pray for the smooth running of the entire electoral process,” CEB members say in their 5-page statement, and implore, “May the God of mercy keep the worst from us and continue to bless Benin.”
Reflecting on insecurity in the West African nation, the Catholic Church leaders note that “despite all the remarkable efforts made by the government, the situation remains worrying.”
“Robberies, acts of vandalism, thefts, and kidnappings continue to disturb the serenity of our peaceful citizens,” CEB members say.
They express concern about this situation, which “continues and considerably slows down the development of our country.”
