Samia: We will act decisively against election disruptors

President Hassan cautioned against the misuse of religious platforms for spreading division and inciting discord.

"We have sworn to protect the rights and dignity of every Tanzanian, and we will not hesitate to act against anyone who exploits these freedoms to incite discord," she stated firmly.

She urged religious leaders to remain focused on their spiritual missions and avoid political entanglements that could jeopardise national harmony.

"Religious platforms should not be used by politicians. Instead, religious leaders should ensure stability is upheld at all times," she advised.

The President encouraged faith leaders to promote voter participation and reassured Tanzanians that lessons from past elections had informed necessary improvements.

Reflecting on the 2019 local government elections, she acknowledged stakeholder concerns and assured the public that corrective measures had been taken to enhance electoral integrity.

"We have taken into account your feedback on the shortcomings observed in the last local government elections. As a government, we will ensure the upcoming elections are conducted freely and fairly by adhering to established laws and regulations," she affirmed.

She reiterated the government's dedication to the 4Rs framework as a guiding principle for the elections and highlighted key reforms, including the establishment of an Independent Electoral Commission (INEC)—a long-standing demand from political stakeholders.

"We have implemented these reforms through an inclusive process, engaging all political actors. Now, I urge all parties to fulfil their responsibilities and utilise platforms such as the Tanzania Centre for Democracy," she stated.

National unity

President Hassan reminded citizens that national unity should always take precedence over political competition.

"It is important to remind our followers that the brotherhood among Tanzanians comes first and will remain intact even after the election," she said.

She called on religious leaders to actively safeguard peace and unity, particularly as Tanzania approaches the election period. She commended the spirit of cooperation exhibited during Ramadan, where Muslims and Christians observed their religious obligations harmoniously.

"Let us maintain the unity and solidarity we demonstrated during the fasting period, a time when both Muslims and Christians fasted and supported one another," she added.

President Hassan attributed Tanzania’s history of smooth political transitions to its long-standing stability, which has been preserved since independence in 1961. 

She lauded faith leaders for their role in maintaining national harmony and urged them to remain vigilant against divisive rhetoric.

However, she warned against a small fraction of religious figures inciting hostility against the government.

"I appeal to the few among your clergy—across all faiths—who spread hatred against the government to stop. We must all understand that in conflict and hostility, there are no winners—only loss and destruction," she cautioned.

While affirming that law enforcement agencies bear the primary responsibility for maintaining peace, she acknowledged that religious leaders wield significant influence over public sentiment.

"For this reason, I entrust this responsibility to you, our religious leaders," she noted.

Grand Mufti of Tanzania, Sheikh Dr Abubakar Zuber Bin Ally, likened peace to an egg that must be handled with great care, warning that once broken, it is nearly impossible to restore. 

He pointed to global conflicts that had led to long-term instability and urged Tanzanians to exercise caution.

"Peace is like an egg—it must be held with great care because if it slips and falls, you cannot put it back together again," he remarked.

He further urged citizens to be vigilant and resist any attempts to manipulate them into jeopardising national stability.

"We must not allow signs that could endanger the future of our nation," he warned, urging voters to choose leaders who prioritise peace.

Similarly, the Secretary General of the Muslims Council of Tanzania, Nuhu Jabir Mruma, described peace as a national treasure that must be preserved.

"Peace is a national treasure, and it is essential to continue safeguarding it at all times, just as those before us did," he stated.

Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) Secretary General, Rev Canon Dr Moses Matonya, also stressed the importance of unity, particularly as the election nears. He urged religious leaders to continually preach harmony and love while praying for a peaceful electoral process.

"Peace and unity are a shared language for all religions and the entire nation, especially during this election period. We must always preach peace and love as a nation and pray for God's guidance to grant us a safe electoral process," he said.

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, assured the public that regional authorities are well-prepared to maintain peace during the election.

He emphasised that safeguarding stability involves not only the police but also religious leaders and civic education initiatives.

"We have not only prepared to rely on the police force but also engaged religious leaders and provided civic education to our people on the real value of the peace we enjoy in this country," he stated.

In Zanzibar, President Dr Hussein Mwinyi echoed similar sentiments, calling for continued prayers for national unity and cooperation. He also urged citizens to uphold Ramadan values, such as acts of kindness and charity, to strengthen societal solidarity and economic stability.

"These acts eliminate envy and hatred while strengthening solidarity and economic stability in our communities. Such values are crucial for our society’s progress," he noted.

He also stressed the importance of road safety during the holiday season, urging law enforcement to enforce traffic laws to prevent accidents.

Various religious leaders across the country reinforced the need for peaceful political engagement. Mwanza Region’s Chief Sheikh, Hassan Kabeke, warned against protests that could lead to unrest. He stressed that Islam is a religion of peace and urged Tanzanians to remain calm.

"I urge all Tanzanians to cherish peace, especially Muslims, as Islam is a religion of peace and humility—that is why it is called Al-Islam," he said.

He encouraged voter participation and reminded citizens of their democratic rights.

"Muslims and even non-Muslims should collect nomination forms regardless of the party they support. We are all citizens of this country, and we have the right to contest, vote, and be elected," he said.

In Kibaha, Coastal Region, Chief Imam of Muuminina Mosque, Sheikh Yusuph Masood, called for increased Muslim participation in leadership, stating that God-fearing leaders govern with justice.

Meanwhile, in Morogoro, Sheikh Faraji Jongo urged citizens to use their freedom of expression responsibly, warning against inflammatory remarks that could incite violence.

"The peace we enjoy allows us Muslims to pray freely, just as our fellow non-Muslims can conduct their worship peacefully," he said.

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