Statement of solidarity from AEA to the Evangelical Alliance and the people of Mozambique

The Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA) stands in solidarity with the people of Mozambique during this most disheartening of periods for the southern African nation.

Following the elections on October 9 and the post-poll violence that ensued thereafter, causing suffering for so many, leaders drawn from the Southern region of AEA and indeed beyond, are deeply concerned by the happenings in Mozambique.

The deadly post-election violence in the county has added to an already difficult year that has witnessed the worst drought on record in the country. AEA extends its deepest condolences to the families that have lost loved ones and our prayers go up for those injured and affected. Our hearts particularly ache for the thousands of most vulnerable members of the society – women, children, the aged and those with disabilities, who are doubly affected by the strife.

We call upon all parties—including government, the security forces, and citizens—to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolutions to the ongoing impasse.

In this difficult time, we urge the Church to work towards bringing healing and unity in the country. Wisdom, compassion and courage is required at this time from all sectors of the society.

We find encouragement in the words of the psalmist David, who lamented the strife and violence in his own city, yet turned to God for hope. As Psalm 55:9-11 reminds us, “Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues, for I have seen violence and strife in the city. Day and night they go around it on its walls; iniquity and trouble are also in the midst of it.”

We pray for unity and divine intervention to break the cycle of discord in the country and restore justice.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)