Presidential election in Sri Lanka throws into question plans for papal visit in January
October 20, 2014
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo, Sri Lanka, has asked President Mahinda Rajapaksa whether a visit by Pope Francis, scheduled to begin next January 13, should be postponed in light of the news that the country may hold a presidential election that same month.
Cardinal Ranjith said that he wrote to the president after political leaders said that Sri Lanka would hold a presidential election in early January. The cardinal declined to discuss the content of his letter, but said he would hold a press conference soon to discuss plans for the papal visit.
Ordinarily the Vatican is careful not to schedule papal travel so that Pontiff's visits do not occur close to national elections, in order to avoid potential political complications.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
