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He said the movement has gained the world\u2019s admiration for its spontaneity, creativity, orderliness, massive organization skills, and non-violent approach.<\/p>\n
The prelate, also president of the Catholic Bishops\u2019 Conference of Myanmar (CBCM),\u00a0said he recognized many of the challenges that the youths are facing.<\/p>\n
\u201cBrutal violence against the people that makes it increasingly impossible for peaceful gatherings; fear, depression and anxiety over the course of future action; finding safe places and living in existential anxieties,\u201d\u00a0are some of those challenges, he said.<\/p>\n
The 73-year-old cardinal said he was \u201cheartbroken and frustrated\u201d by the violence that the young people face.<\/p>\n
With the rising death toll, \u201cyou wonder if armed struggle may be the better response to the daily repression and brutality that you face.<\/p>\n
\u201cI appeal to you to remain determined and disciplined in non-violence,\u201d Cardinal Bo said.<\/p>\n
\u201cYour impressive movement has gained worldwide attention, solidarity, admiration and support because of its peaceful nature so far,\u201d he reminded them.<\/p>\n
The path of violent struggle will initially excite a section of people but in the long-term, it will alienate the majority, losing all support and goodwill not only at home but also within the international community, he added.<\/p>\n
\u201cAgain, I appeal to you to be peaceful and strategic to avoid confrontation and loss of life,\u201d the Catholic leader said.<\/p>\n
The cardinal said he will \u201ccontinue to support all non-violent and peaceful efforts and interventions. I am fully committed at all levels to reduce violence in the streets and for the protection of lives.\u201d<\/p>\n
The plea comes as the daily death toll\u00a0continued to rise in the Southeast Asian nation as the military stepped up lethal action to suppress pro-democracy protesters.<\/p>\n
At least 275 people have been killed since the Feb. 1 coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.<\/p>\n
A seven-year-old girl killed\u00a0in her home by security forces in Mandalay, Myanmar\u2019s second-largest city, on March 23, is the youngest victim so far in the bloody crackdown.<\/p>\n
Pro-democracy protests continue across the nation. A silent strike on March 24 kept many businesses and offices closed and people inside their homes.<\/p>\n
Asian Church leaders have also joined in making fervent appeals for an end to the violence.<\/p>\n
\u201cPlease begin a dialogue to find a solution, a way to go ahead,\u201d\u00a012\u00a0Asian\u00a0cardinals said in a statement.<\/p>\n
They said they\u00a0were with their dear Brother Cardinal Bo.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe share your pain and anguish. We join you as you lead your people in prayer to God for a speedy resolution\u00a0to the conflict, and for light to all to see the way towards a solution.\u201d<\/p>\n
They also appealed to all religious leaders in Myanmar to join them in praying for peace.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n