Pope Francis appeals for an end to violence against anti-coup protesters in Myanmar, and calls on the military junta to release political prisoners and allow the country to continue its journey toward democracy.
By Devin Watkins
Pope Francis once again lifted his voice in support of the people of Myanmar on Wednesday, in the wake of a deadly crackdown on protesters.
Security forces have killed at least 30 people participating in pro-democracy marches since the military coup on 1 February.
Lamenting the deadly clashes, the Pope called on the ruling military junta to stop the violence.
“I wish to call the attention of authorities involved, so that dialogue might prevail over repression, and harmony over discord,” said Pope Francis.
He also urged the international community to ensure that “the aspirations of the people of Myanmar are not suffocated by violence.”
“May the young people of that beloved land be allowed to hope in a future in which hate and injustice give way to encounter and reconciliation,” he said.
Release of political prisoners
The Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s military, seized power in a coup on 1 February, detaining many political leaders.
Aung San Suu Kyi, then the State Counsellor, de facto leader, and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was arrested and faces several charges, including causing “fear and alarm” and possessing illegally imported communications equipment.
In his appeal, Pope Francis called on the military junta to release political prisoners and take steps toward restoring democracy.
“Finally, I repeat my appeal expressed one month ago,” he said, “that the journey toward democracy undertaken in recent years by Myanmar might be renewed through the concrete gesture of the liberation of political leaders who are currently incarcerated.”
