“Only non-violence can lead to lasting peace”: Religious Leaders in Mauritius

Port Louis, 02 October, 2023 / 5:30 PM

On the occasion of the International Day of Non-Violence marked October 2, religious leaders in the Indian Ocean Island nation of Mauritius are encouraging the adoption of non-violent initiatives as a means to achieve lasting peace.

In a statement issued Monday, October 2, members of the Council of Religions (CoR) in Mauritius say, “Against the backdrop of violence and hatred in our country, October 2 is a timely opportunity to question our behavior, whether we are young or old, men or women, believers or atheists.”

“Non-violence does not mean passivity or pacifism, but a shared commitment to promoting peace in the image of Gandhi's salt march,” the leaders say in their statement obtained by ACI Africa.

Members of the Council of Religions in Mauritius say, “Only non-violence can lead to lasting peace in our country and in our families.”

“Anger is a feeling over which we have no control. It just happens. But we can decide not to act in anger,” the religious leaders in the Indian Ocean Island nation say.

They add, “Greed and lust for power have led to bloody wars that end countless lives and the destruction of beautiful cities.”

“Fortunately, there are people throughout the ages who, without violence, have changed the face of the world, and it's these people we celebrate,” officials of CoR say.

They add, “This day could be the ideal moment to meditate on the virtues of bravery, compassion, perseverance and non-violence.”

Established by the UN General Assembly in June 2007, the International Day of Non-violence  is an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence through education and public awareness. 

The day is observed yearly on October 2, the birthday of the leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence, Mahatma Gandhi.

In their October 2 statement, the religious leaders in the Indian Ocean Island nation say, “Gandhi's non-violent actions have left an indelible imprint on people's memories for over 50 years.”

“His figure embodies peace and non-violence in the face of conflict,” members of CoR say.