Bishop Alex Mulamula: Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Bishop Alex Malasusa has called for an end to the recent surge in kidnappings and killings. Speaking during the funeral of Bishop Dr. Chediel Sendoro in Kilimanjaro, Malasusa condemned the acts of violence, particularly the rise in abductions, which have terrorized communities.
The bishop, who presides over one of Tanzania's most influential Christian denominations, stressed the devastating impact of these crimes, warning that the bloodshed could bring a spiritual curse upon the nation.
He passionately urged both citizens and leaders to take decisive action to restore peace and stability. "We must come together as a nation to end this violence," he declared, adding that the escalation of such heinous acts deeply concerns him.
In his address, Malasusa highlighted that Tanzania has historically been known for its peaceful coexistence and unity. However, he warned that the ongoing violence could shatter this legacy if not addressed. He urged the government to take more stringent measures to protect citizens and ensure justice is served swiftly for victims of such atrocities.
The bishop also emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts and preventing future violence. He called for religious leaders, community figures, and political authorities to engage in discussions aimed at identifying and addressing the root causes of these crimes. “It’s through constructive dialogue and prayer that we can achieve lasting peace,” he said.
Further emphasizing the weight of his message, Malasusa called for national prayers to invoke divine intervention and healing for the nation. He stressed that spiritual unity is key to overcoming the rising challenges Tanzania faces.
The kidnapping and murder cases Malasusa referred to have created fear across the country, and the rise in these violent acts has prompted calls for more robust security measures. Some cases have involved prominent individuals, fueling public outcry and debate about the effectiveness of law enforcement. In this context, Bishop Malasusa’s comments reflect a growing concern that action must be taken at all levels of society to combat these challenges.
Malasusa's call resonated strongly with attendees at the funeral, as he described the loss of Bishop Sendoro as a symbol of the greater losses being faced by communities grappling with violence. He urged mourners not to lose hope and to instead work together in the spirit of peace, for the betterment of the nation.
In conclusion, the bishop highlighted the necessity of love and unity, which he believes must be restored for the country to move forward. He reminded the gathering that Tanzania has the potential to overcome these trials, but only if its people and leaders stand together in opposition to violence and division.