By Our Correspondent, Lindi
Religious leaders from Tanzania’s Southern Zone have urged young people to play an active role in safeguarding peace and stability as the country moves closer to the October 29, 2025 General Election.
Their call comes amid growing concerns over the influence of misinformation on social media and the potential impact it could have on voter behavior.
The appeal was made during a Peace Symposium held in Lindi on October 24, 2025, bringing together clerics from Lindi, Mtwara, and Ruvuma regions.
The forum served as a platform for faith leaders to reflect on civic responsibility, the importance of elections in nation-building, and the constitutional duty of every citizen to preserve harmony.
Participants emphasized that peace remains the foundation of Tanzania’s democratic process and warned against complacency in the face of divisive rhetoric.
They urged the youth—who make up the majority of registered voters—to approach the election with maturity and discernment, choosing leaders based on integrity and national interest rather than emotional or online influence.
Sheikh Jamaldin Chamwi, the Chief Sheikh of Mtwara Region, cautioned against heeding calls for unrest spread through social media, saying Tanzanians should instead demonstrate patriotism by voting peacefully.
“We must tell those calling for chaos that Tanzania is not as they imagine. The best way to express our position is through the ballot box,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Father Bonaventure Makota, representing the Catholic Diocese of Lindi, said the youth hold the power to shape the future and must seek wisdom from elders to ensure continuity of peace.
He underscored that harmony and tolerance have long been the cornerstone of Tanzania’s identity.
From Ruvuma, senior Peace Committee member Elimu Mwenzegule reaffirmed that religious institutions stand united in promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and peacebuilding ahead of the elections.
He said the clergy remain key stakeholders in preventing tension and fostering trust between communities.
Nachingwea District Church Council Chairperson, Pastor Leonard John, reminded participants that Tanzania’s electoral history has been largely peaceful.
He urged his fellow leaders to continue preaching unity, noting that faith-based advocacy has consistently helped defuse tension in previous election cycles.
Similarly, Ruvuma Regional BAKWATA Youth Chairperson, Abdallah Mpenda, called on young voters to reflect critically before making political choices, warning against manipulation by misinformation or hate speech.
“We must make decisions based on facts, not rumors. Let us value the peace we enjoy and learn from nations that have lost it,” he said.
Pastor Lussie Ngongi emphasized that religious leaders have a moral duty to champion peace, justice, and freedom, reminding citizens to turn out and vote.
“We have no other country besides Tanzania. Protecting peace is our collective responsibility,” he said.
Mtwara Youth Association Secretary, Mussa Khamis, concluded by highlighting that peace is the foundation for both social welfare and spiritual practice.
He urged citizens to vote responsibly and choose leaders committed to protecting unity and stability.
The symposium underscored a broader message that national peace cannot be taken for granted.
As campaigns intensify, faith leaders are positioning themselves as moral guardians, advocating for tolerance and civic engagement in a period that often tests the country’s unity.