YANGON (UCAN): Charles Cardinal Bo of Yangon urged the people of Myanmar to choose and vote for candidates who work for peace and political and economic federalism in Myanmar’s upcoming general election.
In a written appeal released on September 1, he said, “To vote is a birthright. Voting is not only a right but a sacred duty. This is part of our long pilgrimage to democracy.”
In a 10-point guide in the appeal, the cardinal sought to offer guidance on selecting candidates who work for peace, empower the voiceless through democracy and ensure economic and environmental justice in a conflict-torn nation.
Noting that armed conflict has painfully killed thousands and displaced thousands more, he said, “Our great religions promote the principle of peace—I urge you, vote for peace” and avoid candidates who had ravaged Myanmar’s resources and made the country poor.
“Peace in this bleeding nation will not arrive until the resources of this country are kept at the service of all, especially the poor and marginal communities,” he said.
Cardinal Bo noted that Myanmar needs more leaders with intelligence but who are animated by a sense of “servant leadership, embedding great values of honesty, integrity, accountability and transparency.”
He added: “Power comes from service. Myanmar has had enough strong leaders. It is time for servant leaders.”
