Father Mbuy Advocates for Informed Voting in Upcoming Cameroonian Elections
Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy asserts that selecting suitable political candidates is key to achieving the Church’s goal of fostering love within communities as Cameroonians prepare for the imminent presidential elections. His sermons stress the Church’s role in educating voters and promoting civic involvement, while addressing ongoing political dynamics in Cameroon, including the challenges posed by President Biya’s advanced age and the rise of opposition candidates like Prof. Maurice Kamto.
In Yaoundé, Cameroon, Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy, a prominent priest and intellectual, has emphasized that electing suitable candidates is essential for achieving the Church’s goal of fostering a community of love. As Cameroonians prepare for the presidential elections scheduled for October, Mbuy’s timely sermons highlight the importance of informed voting amidst ongoing political challenges.
With President Paul Biya, who is 92 years old, expected to pursue an eighth term, concerns regarding his age and health have surfaced. The ruling CPDM party may face significant opposition from candidates such as Prof. Maurice Kamto, who advocates for improving health and education services while addressing social inequalities in Cameroon.
Mbuy asserts that the Church has a pivotal role in guiding voters to make informed choices. He remarks, “We must participate in politics because politics is one of the highest forms of charity because it seeks the common good and Christians, lay people, must work in politics.” This aligns with the teachings of Pope Francis on the Church’s involvement in electoral integrity.
He further elaborates on the Church’s responsibility to educate believers about civic duties and moral principles throughout the electoral process, from registration to vote counting. Mbuy reflects on historical instances where the Church has contributed to democratic growth globally, emphasizing its social teachings as a moral compass for electoral conduct.
Citing examples of pastoral letters relating to elections from countries across different continents, including the Philippines and the UK, Mbuy notes that bishops regularly address their congregations about the importance of civic participation. He identifies four key themes in these communications: the moral obligation to vote, selecting candidates for the common good, ensuring election integrity, and fostering peace during electoral processes.
Recognizing the citizens’ basic rights, Mbuy insists on the Church’s duty to inform individuals about their voting rights. He states that citizens must be aware of their civic responsibility, underscoring that the Church should act as a guide and advocate. Furthermore, Mbuy emphasizes that free, fair, and transparent elections are vital to achieving the Church’s aim of developing communities rooted in love.
In conclusion, Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy highlights the integral role of the Church in shaping a politically engaged society. As Cameroonians approach the upcoming elections, his emphasis on informed voting and the moral imperatives conveyed by the Church serve as essential reminders of the responsibilities each citizen holds. The call for justice, peace, and community underscores the Church’s enduring mission in political matters.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
