His Holiness, Pope Francis has appealed for the people of Sri Lanka to make their voices heard in a peaceful way and for political leaders to heed their demands.
The Pope made the appeal after largely peaceful protests in Sri Lanka turned violent this week, leading to the deaths of eight people and the resignation of the Prime Minister.
Pope Francis turned his thoughts to Sri Lanka while speaking at the Wednesday General Audience.
The Pope said he sends his greeting, especially to the “young people who in recent times have made their cry heard in the face of the country’s social and economic challenges and problems.”
“I join religious authorities in urging all parties to maintain a peaceful attitude, without yielding to violence,” he said.
Pope Francis also called on Sri Lanka’s ruling political leaders to heed the voices of protesters.
“I appeal to all those with responsibilities to listen to the aspirations of the people and to ensure full respect for human rights and civil liberties,” his holiness added. (NewsWire)