» 10/08/2007 12:57 NEPAL For the first time Catholics urged to vote by Kalpit Parajuli The First Apostolic Vicar to Nepal, Mgr Anthony Francis Sharma, tells the faithful to go out and vote, stressing the importance of voting for those who, in good conscience, want the good of the nation. The last rampart of the last Hindu monarchy in the world falls.
Kathmandu (AsiaNews) – For the first time in the history of the country, Catholics received some instructions from their bishop about the vote to the constituent assembly which will take place on November 20. This marks the end of the confessional nature of the last Hindu monarchy in the world.
“We don't have our own party so for this time every one of you can vote whomever you think will lead the nation towards peace and progress,” said Mgr Anthony Francis Sharma, first Apostolic Vicar of Nepal.
It is the first time ever that a non Hindu religious leader speaks publicly about openly political issues. Until the state was de-confessionalised no religious leader was allowed to talk about such matters.
The bishop’s statement came during a mass attended by some 500 people, including Hindus and Buddhists who are currently enrolled in catechumen classes.
Mgr Sharma reminded everyone that voting was important and that each one had a duty to act according to their values whether in private or public matters.
