"Indonesia's Election Turmoil: Shifting Ash Wednesday and Fears of Democracy's Decline"

Indonesia's upcoming elections on Feb. 14, which coincides with Ash Wednesday, have prompted the country's bishops to make special arrangements for the Catholic population to participate in both events. The presidential race is a three-way contest, with controversial issues including a plan to transfer the capital, economic development, foreign policy, and minority rights. Some dioceses will hold Ash Wednesday services on alternate days to ensure Catholics can vote. Catholic leaders have called on voters to uphold minority rights and elect leaders who respect diversity and human dignity.