The KAICIID Board of Directors, consisting of representatives of five religions - Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism - issued today the following statement following the new wave of violence in the Central African Republic, in particular in Bangassou on 13 and 14 May 2017, leaving dozens of victims and forcing thousands of civilians to flee the country:

“We are deeply saddened by the resurgence of violence in the Central African Republic, targeting citizens because of their religion and causing bloodshed in a country that has endured great suffering due to conflict in the recent past.

We strongly condemn the intent of attacking places of worship where civilians were protecting themselves from their persecutors. We extend our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones and pray for the recovery of the injured and reconciliation in the country.

All religions reject violence; no violence can be justified by religion.

In these difficult times, we applaud the courageous efforts of religious leaders who risk their lives to mediate with violent groups and to protect civilians of other religions.”

About the Board of Directors

KAICIID is an intergovernmental organization mandated to promote dialogue among different religious and cultural groups to promote justice, peace and reconciliation and to counteract the abuse of religion to justify violence. The Centre is governed by a multi-religious Board of Directors, consisting of representatives of five religions - Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism.

They are, in alphabetical order: Dr. Hamad Al-Majed, Dr.Kezevino Aram, His Excellency Bishop Miguel Ayuso, His Eminence Metropolitan Emmanuel, Dr. Sayyed Ataollah Mohajerani, Reverend Kosho Niwano, Reverend Mark Poulson, Chief Rabbi David Rosen and Dr. Mohammad Sammak.