Religious leaders from Tanzania’s Central Zone have urged citizens to continue safeguarding the country’s peace and to turn out in large numbers to vote in the upcoming October 29, 2025 General Election, emphasizing that peace is a precious national value that must be protected by every citizen.
The appeal was made on October 25, 2025**, during a Peace Symposium held in Dodoma, which brought together religious leaders from the regions of Dodoma and Singida.
During the symposium, participants discussed topics including the importance of voting, the history of elections in Tanzania, and the constitutional responsibilities of citizens in upholding peace and democracy.
Delivering a paper on the importance of peace, the Chairperson of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) in Dodoma Region and Bishop of the Mennonite Church of Tanzania (KMT), Joseph Mtolela, said Tanzania has remained an island of peace throughout the campaign period, and it is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that this continues during and after the polls.
“In four days, our country will enter the election process. We have maintained peace throughout the campaigns, and we need that peace on election day. Let us vote wisely and choose leaders who will promote unity, stability, and national security,” said Bishop Mtolela.
He described peace as a divine gift and the foundation of development.
“God has blessed us with peace—it is both a gift and a privilege. We must protect it because without peace there can be no development, safety, or progress,” he added.
On his part, the Chairperson of the Reconciliation Forum in Dodoma Region, Bishop Evance Chande of the Karmel Assemblies of God Church, said patriotism among citizens has been declining, urging religious leaders to unite and work closely with the government to preserve the nation’s stability.
“We, as religious leaders, have a great responsibility to stand firm in our roles. The enemy is working to destroy peace, so we must act together—especially by educating our youth, who are often misled. Let us instill patriotism and warn them against actions that may drag the nation into conflict,” said Bishop Chande.
Singida Regional Sheikh, Issa Nassoro, said that the duty to protect peace lies in the hands of both religious leaders and their followers.
“The challenge is not the leaders but some believers who lose the fear of God and become sources of unrest. We must return to them, teach and warn them. The beginning of a fire is a spark—we must not allow that spark to ignite,” he cautioned.
He stressed that participating in the election is part of maintaining peace.
“Peace is more valuable than wealth. Any community that refuses to vote denies itself the right to choose legitimate leaders, which can lead to chaos. It is our duty to encourage citizens to vote peacefully and elect leaders who will protect the nation’s interests,” Sheikh Nassoro said.
Bishop Zephania Mkuyu of the Tanzania Assemblies of God (TAG) – Dodoma West, said that peace is not a political issue but a spiritual one, urging religious leaders to continue preaching peace and praying for the nation.
“If we stand firm in our positions as spiritual leaders, we will see positive results. Peace is the foundation of spiritual, social, and economic development,” he said.
Dodoma Regional Sheikh, Dr. Mustapha Rajabu, reminded citizens to obey both religious and government authorities and to follow official guidance regarding the election.
“The only legitimate march is going to vote. On October 29, let everyone come out and choose leaders who will bring development. Without peace, families and infrastructure will suffer,” said Sheikh Rajabu.
Meanwhile, Mufti’s Advisor, Alhaji Ismail Dawood, urged citizens not to fear unrest but to participate peacefully in the polls.
“Let’s not be afraid of violence—let’s go and vote. I urge all believers to gather peacefully and cast their votes on October 29,” he said.
The symposium concluded with a joint statement by all religious leaders, pledging to continue educating their followers on the importance of preserving peace, promoting national unity, and participating in the elections peacefully and responsibly.
