The Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Tanzania, The Most Reverend Dr. Maimbo Mndolwa, has urged Tanzanians to fully participate in the General Election scheduled for October 2025. He warned that postponing the election could plunge the nation into a serious constitutional crisis.
Speaking on May 11, 2025, in Mbeya during the consecration of Canon Jacob William Kahemele as the Bishop of the Southern Highlands Diocese, Archbishop Mndolwa stressed the importance of adhering to the national Constitution.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, represented President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan as the Guest of Honor.
“With the Deputy Prime Minister present, I appeal to the entire nation: let us not postpone the October 2025 General Election. Doing so could lead to a deep constitutional impasse. If there are challenges, let’s seek peaceful and legal solutions,” said Archbishop Mndolwa.
He commended the Government for its ongoing cooperation with religious institutions and for upholding the freedom of worship, which he said contributes significantly to the nation’s development.
In his remarks following the service, Dr. Biteko reiterated the Government's openness to dialogue under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership and encouraged those with concerns to engage in constructive discussions.
“As we approach the elections for the presidency, parliament, and local councils this October, I want to assure the public that the process will be free and fair, as mandated by the Constitution,” said Dr. Biteko.
“Where concerns have been raised, we’ve revised relevant election laws. Today, the President’s door remains open to anyone seeking to contribute to national progress.”
He also urged citizens to continue praying for lasting peace and unity for the benefit of both current and future generations.
Dr. Biteko recognized the essential contributions of all faith groups, including the Anglican Church, in areas such as education, healthcare, water, and community development.
He highlighted the Southern Highlands Diocese’s work across 37 parishes in Songwe and Mbeya, providing vital spiritual and social services.
“From 2016 to 2025, the Anglican Church, in partnership with development stakeholders, invested over TZS 5 billion in the 'Dreams' and 'Archive' projects initiatives aimed at supporting vocational education and health services for young girls and children living with HIV in Mbeya, Songwe, and Tunduma,” he said.
These programs have benefited over 160,000 people, helping to improve livelihoods and social conditions, including generating income for over 150 individuals in need.
He pledged continued Government cooperation with the Anglican Church to advance national development goals.
Dr. Biteko also congratulated Bishop Kahemele on his new role and called on congregants to support and encourage him, especially in times of difficulty.
“We commend you for your dedication to God, your obedience to the spiritual calling, and your visionary leadership. The Government will continue partnering with your Diocese to enhance the wellbeing of our people and promote national unity,” Dr. Biteko added.
Minister of State in the President’s Office, Retired Captain George Mkuchika, called for unity among church members following the recent election of the new bishop. He emphasized obedience to church leadership and noted that elections should serve to unite not divide Tanzanians.
He encouraged qualified individuals to pursue public office in accordance with established procedures and laws.
In his sermon, Bishop Sospeter Ndenza emphasized that a bishop is both a high priest and a chief shepherd on behalf of Christ, entrusted with maintaining church discipline and overseeing worship and sacraments.
“This responsibility is profound. Jacob, you must pray for God’s wisdom in today’s complex world. As you are consecrated, you will need integrity and discernment to represent Christ,” Bishop Ndenza said.
He urged the new bishop not to fear opposition but to remain grounded in God's guidance, relying not on personal intellect but on humility and faith.
In his acceptance, Bishop Jacob Kahemele vowed to pray for national leaders and promote spiritual growth and revival among his flock.
“We must intensify prayer and strengthen our faith. The devil is cunning and often deceives people. We will emphasize spiritual maturity so believers are not easily misled,” he said.
He also committed to faithful service, worship leadership, and supporting the vulnerable. Highlighting societal challenges such as alcohol abuse, smoking, and gambling among youth, he urged the Government to regulate the sale of strong alcohol and cigarettes more strictly.
Bishop Kahemele also praised the Government for key infrastructure projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and suggested extending the SGR to connect Mbeya with Dar es Salaam to enhance regional economic growth.
The consecration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the National Assembly and President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Dr. Tulia Ackson, and the Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi.
