All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO) on poll ethics
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 25 2011:
Noting that there are many Pastors who cannot remain neutral during election time, the All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO) has called upon all Church leaders and pastors to be impartial at all times.
Speaking at a one day seminar organised by AMCO on contemporary issues at KBC Centre Church, Kangpokpi today, AMCO president Rev Prim Vaiphei stated that Church is one of the most powerful institutions for followers of Christianity.
As such, it is crucial that Pastors and Church leaders act with impartiality during election time.
The seminar held under the motto 'Truth, Justice, Love, Peace and Equality' was attended by many Pastors and Church leaders.
Rev Prim Vaiphei stated that there might be many threats and demands from underground organisations but Church leaders should never interfere in political matters under any circumstances.
"If the Church leaders do not advocate free and fair elections, then who would come forward to do this task ?" asked Prim Vaiphei.
In hill areas, it was not election but selection, he stated while questioning the Pastors if Lord Jesus Christ would forgive those people who come to Church congregations after capturing polling booths, or casting proxy votes.
Observing that Pastors have been named in some cases of child trafficking, Rev Prim Vaiphei lamented that these shameful activities was the result of some self-centred Pastors.
"It is a great sin", he asserted and called upon the Church leaders to shoulder their responsibility with commitment towards bringing truth, justice and peace.
The Church leader further preached against working in one's own self interest and asserted that no one should sell out their voting rights for some money.
Clarifying that AMCO is not sponsoring any political party, Prim Vaiphei stated that the primary objective AMCO is to facilitate reconciliation among Church leaders who have certain differences or discord.
Negotiation with Naga organisations to lift economic blockade from national highway, holding dialogue in Nagaland after NSF burnt Manipur vehicles in Nagaland, rescue of German national Wolfgang in 2003 and Chandel DC Y Thamkishore in 2004 after they were abducted by UGs were all done by AMCO in consultation with the Government and religious groups.
Speaking about the purpose of the seminar, Prim Vaiphei stated that all the people need to have a clear understanding of the situation prevailing in Manipur which is characterised by corruption at all levels, absence of justice, suppression of truth with power etc.
Those earning money by cultivating ganja and poppy on the hill ranges of Sadar Hills are all church members.
It is the duty of Church leaders to give proper counselling to the poppy and ganja cultivators and wean them from their harmful practice.
Dr Leban Serto presented a paper on election manual and procedure.