As Botswana prepares for its national elections in this month of October, Bishop of the Diocese of Gaborone , Most Rev. Frank Nubuasah, SVD has called on electorates to listen carefully to those seeking power and not let emotion take over their hearts and minds as politicians are all over the country and in the media trying to sell themselves.

The prelate says electorates must know who they are voting for and what he/she stands for.

Part of the pastoral letter reiterates the Holy spirit as the helper of mankind

‘As Christians we know that our Helper the Holy Spirit is always with us to help us make good decisions. We are encouraged by the Word of God spoken through the Prophet Jeremiah that says:

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29: 11.’

The letter also touched on Pope Francis Apostolic Exhortation, “The Joy of the Gospel” which calls on all to be responsible citizens.

“Responsible citizenship is a virtue and participation in political life is a moral obligation.” Pope Francis encourages us to get involved in politics in whatever way possible to promote social responsibility and respect for the common good.’’

Read the full statement below

Dear Brothers and Sisters, greetings in the Lord.

This month of October sees Botswana having her general elections. As we approach the date of elections, politicians are all over the country and in the media trying to sell themselves to the electorate. It is important that we listen carefully to each one of them and not let emotion take over our hearts and minds. To vote, you must know who you are voting for and what he/she stands for.

As Christians we know that our Helper the Holy Spirit is always with us to help us make good decisions. We are encouraged by the Word of God spoken through the Prophet Jeremiah that says:

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jer. 29, 11.

Pope Francis in his Apostolic Exhortation, “The Joy of the Gospel” writes that “Responsible citizenship is a virtue and participation in political life is a moral obligation.” Pope Francis encourages us to get involved in politics in whatever way possible to promote social responsibility and respect for the common good.

Although our democracy is more than 50 years, we do have major challenges as a nation. The immediate challenges to be tackled now are,

 the rising youth unemployment,
 quality education that prepares people for the market place,
 the diversification of the economy from mining and tourism.,
 poverty and corruption.

We can use the following criteria to help us discern how to vote and with which political party to align ourselves. Our participation in political life requires that we promote:

• The sacredness of human life
• human dignity
• Support for marriage and family
• Social responsibility and respect for the common good
• The just sharing of resources and wealth
• Compassionate solidarity with the poor and marginalized.

Let us shape future of our country by participating fully in the elections and pray for a peaceful, free and fair general elections this year.

Let our prayer be:

Lord, we pray that the forthcoming elections may bring about deepening of our democracy and that we will carry out our duties as citizens responsibly and with respect for the rights of others. May the choices we make bring hope to the poor, the marginalized, unity to all our people and a more secure and peaceful future for our children. Amen.

(Signed by Bishop Frank Nubuasah)
Catholic Church
Gaborone

Source//Radio Angelus