By Our Reporter, Mwanza
Religious leaders in Mwanza Region have urged Tanzanians to turn out in large numbers to vote peacefully in the forthcoming General Election scheduled for October 29, 2025.
The call was made during the Mwanza Interfaith Peace Conference, where leaders from different faiths underscored the need to preserve peace and unity before, during, and after the elections, describing peace as a priceless treasure Tanzania has safeguarded for over six decades of independence.
Reading a joint statement on behalf of the Mwanza Interfaith Peace Committee, Co-Chairperson Bishop Dr. Charles Sekelwa said faith leaders would continue to encourage citizens to exercise their democratic right responsibly and calmly.
“We urge citizens to cast their votes with love, fairness, and transparency—and afterward, return home peacefully. We shall continue to pray that God blesses Tanzania with wisdom and stability throughout this election period,” he said.
Held under the theme *“Elections are a Time for Decision — Let’s All Participate, Preserve Peace and Unity for National Development,”* the forum drew participation from religious leaders, youth, and peace stakeholders from across the region.
The Committee’s Chairperson, Sheikh Hassan Kabeke, emphasized that peace forms the foundation for justice and development.
“Some people think we preach peace more than justice, but justice cannot stand without peace. Let us not be deceived—peace must come first. We must all go out and vote, because not voting is denying ourselves a constitutional right,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Sheikh Amani Mussa Maumba, Chairperson of the Nyamagana District Peace Committee, said peace is essential for the nation’s wellbeing.
“Our duty as religious leaders is to preach peace at all times. But we must also remind our followers to go out and vote, and after voting, to return home and remain calm while awaiting results,” he said.
The Chairman of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) for Mwanza Region and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Victoria Nyanza, Rt. Rev. Zefania Ntuza, called on religious leaders and their families to lead by example by participating in the election.
“Let’s encourage our congregations to go and vote, while also reminding them that peace is crucial to our nation’s prosperity. Fellow Tanzanians, let’s protect our peace—it is a divine blessing for our country,” he said.
Pastor Upendo Isaya noted that making sound decisions requires inner peace, urging Tanzanians to remain calm and focused.
“As we approach the elections, let us seek peace and remember that voting is our constitutional right. Let’s elect leaders who will serve our nation faithfully,” she said.
Similarly, Amina Masenza, Chairperson of the Muslim Women’s Committee in Mwanza, urged citizens to uphold the Constitution by participating in the election, saying doing so ensures both the exercise of their civic rights and the preservation of national harmony.
Mwanza Regional Commissioner, Mr. Said Mtanda, assured residents that the government and security agencies are well-prepared to ensure the entire electoral process proceeds smoothly and safely.
“As Chair of the Regional Security Committee, I assure you that Mwanza is safe. The regional administration and security organs have put in place robust measures to guarantee peace and order. I urge all citizens to vote without fear, confident that the government is fulfilling its responsibility,” he said.
He added that Mwanza, home to over 3.6 million residents, has strengthened its security mechanisms to protect lives and property throughout the election period.
Mr. Mtanda commended religious leaders for organizing the peace conference, noting that they remain vital pillars of unity, justice, and love. He urged the public to avoid provocations and reject incitement from individuals seeking to stir unrest.
“The government welcomes constructive criticism, but let’s engage with wisdom and respect—not through hatred, religion, or gender divisions. We must listen to the voices of our people and uphold our nation’s founding principles,” he said.
Former Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr. Lazaro Nyalandu, who also attended the conference, described peace as Tanzania’s most valuable national asset.
“We must remind our youth and congregations that there is no greater treasure than peace, love, and unity. As we vote, let’s do so with love and protect our peace. Tanzania is blessed to be a nation without religious conflict—let’s safeguard that blessing,” he said.
The conference concluded with a joint appeal for a peaceful, fair, and united election process that strengthens democracy and sustains Tanzania’s long-standing reputation for stability.
