Tanzania Catholic bishops condemn abductions and killings, call for accountability

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) has strongly condemned the recent surge in abductions and killings across the country, calling on state authorities to take decisive action to restore Tanzania’s reputation for peace and stability.

This call for action was made during the closing ceremony of the Fifth Eucharistic Congress of the Catholic Church which was held on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

In his statement, TEC Vice President Bishop Eusebius Alfred Nzigilwa, who is also the Bishop of the Diocese of Mpanda, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. The theme of the congress, "Fraternity Heals the World, We Are All Brothers," highlighted the church's commitment to unity and peace.

For decades, Tanzania has been celebrated as a beacon of peace amid diverse religious, ethnic, and ideological differences. However, Bishop Nzigilwa noted that recent developments threaten this longstanding peace.

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“The recent incidents of abductions and killings force us to question the direction our nation is heading. Have the leadership, relevant authorities, and security agencies become so overwhelmed that they are unable to manage this crisis?” he asked.

Bishop Nzigilwa emphasized that criminal groups should not be more powerful than the country’s security forces.

He urged these agencies to fulfill their responsibilities and restore the nation’s core values of brotherhood and peace.

“We do not believe that these criminal groups are stronger than our security forces. Therefore, we urge these agencies to act decisively to restore our nation’s fundamental values of brotherhood and peace,” he said.

The bishops expressed solidarity with the people, institutions, and international communities in condemning the criminal acts and abductions. They called for thorough and urgent investigations to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

“We support the call for comprehensive and immediate investigations so that all those involved in these crimes are held accountable,” Bishop Nzigilwa added.

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He also underscored the sanctity of human life, stating, “Life is a gift from God; humans are created in His image and likeness. Human life and dignity must be respected and protected at all costs.”

The TEC's strong stance underscores the urgency of addressing the current crisis and restoring the peace and unity that have long been hallmarks of Tanzania.