President Samia Suluhu Hassan has warned that some individuals who portray themselves as activists are engaging in actions that amount to terrorism, saying acts that undermine peace or target public property cannot be justified as activism.
Addressing the signing ceremony of the Joint Declaration on Political Reconciliation in Zanzibar on Thursday, the President said terrorism encompasses acts intended to intimidate the public or pressure governments into accepting the demands of individuals or groups pursuing political, ideological or religious objectives.
She added that, in today's global environment, terrorist activities may also be aimed at slowing the progress of countries experiencing rapid economic and social development.
"Some individuals or groups use language that appears patriotic, but beneath it are personal interests. Anyone who genuinely loves their country builds it rather than destroys it," President Samia said.
She maintained that the international community does not tolerate terrorism and that governments have a duty to protect citizens, public infrastructure and national institutions through lawful measures.
President Samia said Tanzania would continue to take decisive action against threats to peace and security, stressing that safeguarding national stability remains a key responsibility of the State.
