Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has called on Tanzanians to carefully assess candidates and vote impartially in the forthcoming General Election scheduled for October 29, 2025. He warned against allowing elections to become a source of division in the country.
Speaking on August 12, 2025, while representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Anglican Diocese of Kagera at St. John the Baptist Cathedral grounds in Murgwanza, Ngara, Dr. Biteko emphasized the importance of democracy, peaceful campaigns, and ethical conduct throughout the electoral process.
“Tanzanians have the right and responsibility to evaluate candidates based on their track records and choose leaders who will drive the nation forward,” Dr. Biteko said. “We must ensure that our democratic processes unite rather than divide us.”
Delivering President Samia’s greetings, Dr. Biteko acknowledged the government’s recognition of religious institutions’ pivotal role in national development.
He highlighted President Samia’s commitment to supporting community projects that improve livelihoods.
In a significant gesture, President Samia donated TZS 50 million towards the construction of the new Anglican Diocese church in Kagera, demonstrating the government’s dedication to fostering development partnerships.
Dr. Biteko also encouraged citizens to foster goodwill and contribute positively to their communities, stressing that social harmony is key to national progress.
Earlier, Anglican Bishop of Kagera Diocese, Darlington Misango Bendankeha, expressed gratitude to the government for its continued support in advancing development projects, especially in health and education sectors.
Bishop Bendankeha appealed for the completion of a critical 900-meter road linking vital service institutions, provision of an ambulance, and further support for the church’s construction, estimated at TZS 1.18 billion.
In response, Dr. Biteko instructed regional and district authorities, alongside the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), to expedite the road project.
He also assured the delivery of an ambulance to Murgwanza Hospital following consultations with the Health Minister, Hon. Jenista Mhagama.
On the election front, Bishop Bendankeha urged citizens to actively participate in the voting process, emphasizing that their votes are a powerful tool for driving positive change.
The Regional Commissioner of Kagera, Fatuma Mwassa, commended the Anglican Church for its impactful social services that uplift local communities.