Two elections this month in eastern and central Africa—in Kenya and Rwanda—have brought out tensions and contradictions in the continent’s democratic process.
Africa
Posted inNews, Politics & Society
Pope Francis prays for Christian victims of violent attacks in Africa
“I hope that all forms of hatred and violence cease and that such shameful crimes are no longer committed in places of worship where the faithful gather to pray.”
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Secret parliamentary vote fails to unseat South Africa’s President
The no-confidence vote was called by the opposition in Parliament in the wake of overwhelming evidence of the president’s corrupt dealings with the Gupta family.
Posted inFaith, News
Pope prays for Christian victims of violent attacks in Africa
The pope led pilgrims in praying a Hail Mary for the victims of the attacks at St. Philip’s Catholic Church in Ozubulu, Nigeria and at a mission in Gambo, Central African Republic.
Posted inNews, Politics & Society
Clergy preach peace during Kenyan national elections
In the weeks before Kenya’s election on Aug. 8, ethnic tensions ran high, prompting religious leaders—Christian and Muslim—to preach for peace.
Posted inFaith, News
African-born clergy and religious ministering in U.S. gather in New Orleans
Ministering in this “globalizing church” challenges church leaders and laity to bring unity to parishes that are increasingly multicultural, intercultural, diverse and pluralistic
Posted inFaith, News
CRS worker: Churches attacked, crisis worsens in Central African Republic
A Catholic aid worker warned of a worsening crisis in the Central African Republic, as church centers are attacked and more armed groups fight over territory and resources.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Church opposes new plans to regulate religious practice in South Africa
The director of Freedom of Religion South Africa, Michael Swain, said that government had no business “meddling with religion.”
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Anti-apartheid veteran asks: What has become of the African National Congress?
One of the themes that emerged from A.N.C. conference was party renewal. Father Mkhatshwa is skeptical. He says that the A.N.C. is redeemable, but “they need new people to do it.”
Posted inFaith, News
Amid scandal, Mali bishop pledges to make cardinal’s ceremony
An ailing Mali archbishop facing allegations of financial impropriety assured the Vatican on Tuesday he plans to show up at St. Peter’s Basilica to be made a cardinal by Pope Francis.