Biteko urges voters to shun divisive politics, choose leaders of integrity

Monduli. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has urged Tanzanians to avoid religious and tribal divisions ahead of the upcoming General Election, calling for unity and wise leadership choices that prioritise development over personal gain.

Dr Biteko issued the call yesterday while inaugurating a water project in Esilalei Village, Monduli District, Arusha Region. The visit forms part of ongoing government activities ahead of Union Day commemorations.

He warned against voting based on temporary handouts, such as soft drinks, rather than evaluating a candidate’s capacity to deliver tangible results.

“Let us not allow ourselves to be divided along political, religious, or tribal lines,” said Dr Biteko. “We must not let anyone plant seeds of discord and pretend to be a doer while offering nothing but words.”

He urged the people to choose a leader who is ready to work for the good of the majority. He called on citizens to safeguard the country's long-standing unity and ensure Tanzania remains a model of peace and cooperation across Africa.

Turning to the water project, Dr Biteko commended the ministry of Water and the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (Ruwasa) for implementing the initiative, which is expected to ease the water shortage that has long plagued the area.

He emphasised the importance of community ownership and protection of the project for the benefit of future generations.

In his technical brief, Monduli District Ruwasa manager, Mr Neville Msaki, said the project will serve 8,857 people and 26,400 livestock in Esilalei and Losirwa villages.

The project, scheduled for completion by June 30, 2025, will generate 518,400 litres of water per day, exceeding the area’s daily demand of 442,850 litres.

The Sh2.7 billion initiative is currently 96 percent complete. Works so far include construction of the water source, laying and backfilling of 27.1 kilometres of pipeline, and building seven water collection points, a livestock trough, two rehabilitated water tanks, and a new 135,000-litre tank.

Mr Msaki noted that residents, schools, and health facilities previously had to walk up to 12 kilometres to access clean water.

Monduli District Commissioner Festo Kiswaga said the district has long struggled with water scarcity, particularly for livestock.

“This project is a major relief for our livestock keepers, who now have a reliable source of water for themselves and their animals,” he said.