Sep 6, 2005 / 22:00 pm
In order to mark Brazil’s Independence Day on September 7, the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil is releasing a statement calling for “radical reform of the current political system.”
The bishops point out that it is not possible “to let this moment pass without carrying out profound political reform” in response to the widespread denouncing of corruption and the growing indignation over the violation of fundamental values of Brazilian society.
In their statement, the bishops call for greater fidelity to one’s party, improvements in democratic institutions and the promotion of greater participation in democracy.
The bishops noted that “the experience of popular participation in politics—through social movements, trade unions, social ministry and political parties—signifies progress and an historical patrimony of the Brazilian people which cannot nor should not be lost because of the sinister actions of politicians who seek power and personal advantage at whatever cost.”