Words of Life: An Enduring Legacyনমুনা

Political prisoners.

Politics is about the governance of a country for the defence and welfare of its people. It is tragic that in some nations, particularly totalitarian states, anyone disagreeing with the government’s policies or their methods may find themselves incarcerated as political prisoners.

Of course, there will never be wholehearted agreement among any diverse group of people. Various political parties will always vie with one another. Each firmly believes that their principles, values, and procedures are the preferable ways to ensure security, order, and economic development for the benefit of society. The word ‘politics’ comes from the Greek politikos, meaning ‘of, for, or about citizens’. In some countries injustices abound, yet any criticism of the government or the military is considered treason, and the ‘offenders’ may be imprisoned for long periods, often without a fair trial.

Non-governmental agencies like Amnesty International campaign vigorously against those regimes where there is widespread abuse of citizens and a disregard for the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

Jesus experienced a blatant miscarriage of justice. He was arrested on a false charge of blasphemy and tried during unlawful court proceedings. Despite the lack of evidence and the contradictory statements of paid witnesses, he was declared guilty. This charge was subsequently changed to sedition, and he was wrongly sentenced to death as a political prisoner. It was ironic, because Jesus’ ministry was ‘of, for, or about citizens’ and their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

For most of us, it is not practical to visit political prisoners in foreign lands, but we can support those organisations who have, through international pressure, seen laws changed and people freed. Closer to home, we can support those who feel imprisoned by their dire circumstances.

What are the social issues in our neighbourhood? What could we do to help alleviate suffering?