Snl24 | Baruti pray for peaceful elections

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha hopes for the elections to run smoothly through prayer. Photo by Judas Sekwela

WITH election day drawing closer, many fear that political violence may erupt. 

The South African Council of Churches (SACC) in Limpopo held a provincial day of prayer to seek divine intervention for a smooth and peaceful election process. 

The prayer service was held in Polokwane on Wednesday, 22 May, where church leaders and congregants, political leaders and representatives from the Limpopo government were in attendance.

SACC convener, Reverend Awedzani Nemaukhwe said they also aim to pray for men and women in the electoral commission, law enforcement agencies, emergency medical services and all this who will be working.

Bishop Naledzani Sikhwari says they pray for the electorate to align with God’s will for the elections. Photo by Judas Sekwela

“We want to see peace reign during and after the elections. We believe whatever we pray for will happen as the Lord wishes because we need peace. No blood must be shed,” he said.

The prayer session came a few days after political violence erupted as EFF supporters prevented ANC members from campaigning at Juju Valley Informal Settlement in Seshego outside Polokwane. Two people suffered gunshot wounds and 10 others were injured.

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Tsebe Nchabeng from the Electoral Commission of South Africa said they appreciate the SACC for the initiative as they have been praying for fair and peaceful polls.

“We believe God has answered our prayers. It’ll hurt to hear that people are attacking each other and that voting stations are not operating due to political intolerance,” she said.

Congregants from various churches across Limpopo came together to pray for peaceful elections. Photo by Judas Sekwela

The pastors prayed for political parties to inspire unity, co-operation and tolerance. They also prayed to bind the spirit of deception and dishonesty from operating in the election process.

Bishop Naledzani Sikhwari said: “It’s everyone’s responsibility to be an ambassador for peace. We pray for the electorate to align with God’s will for these elections.”

Limpopo Premier, Stan Mathabatha said it’s good that they are praying for peace.

“Nothing beats prayer and we’ll make it. May God bring about leaders who will lead our country to justice and peace for our people,” he said.