Tanzanian Muslims warned against being used to destabilise national peace

Morogoro. As Tanzania prepares for the upcoming general election in October this year, the Imam of Masjid Rahma in Lukobe Ward, Morogoro Municipality, Sheikh Faraji Jongo, has urged both Muslims and non-Muslims not to be used to destabilise the country’s peace through inflammatory and defamatory remarks against national leaders.

Speaking during an Idd-ul-Fitr sermon at the mosque on Monday, 31st March, Sheikh Jongo reminded worshippers that the constitutional right to freedom of expression should not be misused to spread hateful or provocative statements.

“The peace we enjoy allows us Muslims to pray freely, just as our fellow non-Muslims can conduct their worship peacefully. In some countries, people might be observing Idd under the watch of armed soldiers, but we are fortunate to worship in peace. We must safeguard this valuable peace because, once lost, no one will be safe,” he cautioned.

Additionally, Sheikh Jongo urged Muslims to continue practising good deeds beyond the holy month of Ramadan, as this is a key aspect of fearing God and maintaining the essence of fasting.

“Some people are eagerly waiting to return to sinful acts such as drinking alcohol, committing adultery, stealing, and other immoral activities after Ramadan. I must warn them that if they do so, their fasting will be meaningless before God,” he stated.

Several Muslim worshippers also reflected on this year’s Ramadan, describing it as a period of great blessings. They noted that, unlike in previous years, the prices of essential items such as rice, sugar, wheat, cooking oil, and tubers remained stable, making it easier for many to observe fasting.

Aisha Hugo expressed gratitude to the government for controlling inflation, which enabled many Muslims to afford their Ramadan meals.

“In past years, the prices of essential food items would skyrocket during Ramadan, making it difficult for some people to afford meals. However, this year, prices remained stable, allowing even those who previously struggled to afford meals to fast comfortably,” Hugo said.

Aisha Salumu urged fellow Muslim women to continue engaging in good deeds beyond Ramadan and not to be used by politicians to cause unrest in the country.

“As we approach the elections, women play a crucial role in maintaining national peace. If instability arises, it is women and children who suffer the most. Our husbands can flee, but where will we and our children go? I urge my fellow women not to engage in divisive politics,” she warned.