Metropolitan Teodosije of Raška and Prizren in his message on the occasion of the forthcoming parliamentary elections in Kosovo and Metohija, makes a pastoral appeal to the citizens for a smooth, peaceful, and democratic conduct of the elections.
He notes the importance of unity among the people, despite their differences, around their core interests such as survival, security, economic progress, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
He also stresses the need for citizens to participate in the elections in order to secure the rights and interests of the Serbian people in the region, with a view to improving the quality of life for future generations.
Find below the message of the Metropolitan of Raška and Prizren:
In view of the fact that in three days’ time parliamentary elections will be held in Kosovo and Metohija, we deem it necessary to issue a pastoral appeal to all citizens, stressing that the elections must be held in order, in peace and in a democratic atmosphere. For our people, who are going through very difficult times in these regions, it is crucial that, despite existing differences, citizens show unity around our main interests.
These interests are, first and foremost, the survival of our people in the region, their security, economic progress, and the preservation of our holy sites and our entire spiritual and cultural heritage. In this regard, it is particularly important to ensure adequate and reliable health care in our communities, as well as education based on the preservation of our language, culture and all the values that have sustained us for centuries.
The Church, by its very nature, cannot interfere in the electoral process, since its role has always been to unite and unite not only its faithful, but also to build bridges of cooperation with all people of good will, regardless of the political conditions in which we live. Therefore, we firmly believe that our people in Kosovo and Metohija will be able to recognise those who enjoy the greatest trust, reputation and moral integrity, and who have contributed to the efforts and actions of the Diocese of Raška and Prizren in the protection of fundamental human and religious rights, as well as the sanctity of our sites.
Above all, it is important that the elections on Sunday, 9 February, take place in peace and human dignity, and that everyone shows their responsibility and awareness that, overcoming differences, they will elect those who best represent the will of our people. In this context, it is essential that as many eligible voters as possible participate in the elections, so that in the current situation in Kosovo and Metohija, the Serbian people can preserve their fundamental interests and rights and improve the quality of life for present and future generations.
Metropolitan of Raška and Prizren
Teodosije
