CONCERNS are being raises about potential violence during this year’s general election, with top clerics citing disturbances seen during local government elections.

Bishop Christopher Ndizeye of the Kahama Catholoc Diocese said in a New Year homily that some of those involved in the violence are church members, emphasizing that such actions are driven by greed for power. 

He said that the government needs to address these issues before the general election to prevent a recurrence, pointing out that the main victims of election violence are often children and women as they are the most vulnerable. 

In Babati, Bishop Antony Lagwen of the Catholic Diocese of Mbulu urged leaders with a thirst for power and wealth to stop, as these motives often lead to the loss of peace. 

He also stressed the importance of defending the rights of the people and helping them understand their entitlements.

Pastor Warehema Chamshana of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) at Pangani, Tanga Region, also underscored the importance of prayer as the country heads into the general election. 

He called on Tanzanians to register to vote as this is a critical step in ensuring that capable leaders are chosen to guide the country for the next five years.

Religious leaders’ messages underscored the importance of peace, unity, and responsible leadership as Tanzania approaches its 2025 elections.

They encouraged citizens to make this year one of success, rooted in harmony, solidarity and the pursuit of development needs.

Said Mtanda, the Mwanza regional commissioner, also stressed that 2025 is an election year and that political parties have the right to compete for power.

He urged Mwanza residents not to let themselves be manipulated into undermining peace and thus to make the year a success, marked by peace and solidarity. 

In the neighbouring Shinyanga region, a top cleric demanded that leaders should this year dedicate themselves to governing with responsibility and avoid resorting to violence or disruptions that may threaten the peace, a top cleric has appealed.

Bishop Liberatus Sangu of the Catholic Diocese made this appeal in his New Year Eve address at the Ngokolo parish, 

His remarks reflected the tone of various religious leaders across the country who appealed for peace, unity and responsible leadership as the country approaches the 2025 general election.

The Shinyanga prelate said that Tanzanians need to pray for the country’s peace throughout the year, noting that 2025 is an election year, “a time to elect the president and members of Parliament.”

“This process often leads to disruptions in peace. Let us stand together to protect the peace we have and not allow anyone to jeopardize it,” he emphasized. 

Tanzanians need to celebrate the New Year peacefully by helping those in need and avoiding excesses, he told the worshippers. 

Sheikh Hassan Kabeke of Mwanza also echoed the message of peace, stating that the country cannot prosper without it. He stated that it is every Tanzanian’s responsibility to help maintain peace, particularly as elections approach.

He pointed at growing tensions, with accusations being made while acts of charity are being seen as political maneuvering. 

He reminded the Muslim faithful that the New Year is a shared time for all people, regardless of their individual beliefs, “so everyone needs to recognize its significance and participate fully in the celebrations.”

Pastor Edward Kibiti of the Anglican Church in Mwanza cited prayer as vital in choosing the right leaders, likening elections with picking leaders who can help the country achieve its dream, for instance taking the coumtry out of a situation similar to famine. 

He urged that Tanzanians focus on building a strong foundation for the future, ensuring that the next five years maintain peace and development.

In Dodoma, Auxiliary Bishop Wilbroad Kibozi encouraged the faithful to devise strategies to assist the less fortunate and help them progress.

True faith involves dedicating oneself to helping others, particularly those facing hardships so that they too can experience dignity and progress, he stated. 

He appealed for personal and wider transformation in the New Year, stressing the role of parents in raising children with strong morals, helping to create future leaders for religious and public institutions.