Peace, polls on 29th , Tanzanians decide together

DAR ES SALAAM: COME the 29th of this month, Tanzania will once again stand at a historic crossroad, not because we are in crisis, but because democracy is calling. Loudly.

Again, this time, it wants every single voice heard from Kigoma to Zanzibar and from Mara to Mtwara, you name them. Let us be honest and that is to say democracy only works when we show up.

Not just on social media. Not just in heated barbershop debates. But physically, at the polling stations.

Because while online activism is convenient, it is your ink-stained finger that tells the real story of participation. There are 101 reasons to vote and not a single excuse not to.

This is not just about choosing leaders. It is about choosing the Tanzania you want to live in tomorrow. A peaceful, prosperous and united nation is not built on apathy.

It is built on action and your action is your vote. As it has been the routine of every election, our security forces are ready, as always, to provide a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens.

Elections in Tanzania are a constitutional right, not a battlefield. We have done it before and we will do it again and that is peacefully, responsibly, proudly.

Now, to our revered religious leaders: This is your pulpit moment. Churches, mosques, temples, you name them-these are not just places of worship, but places of wisdom.

Let the message be clear from every sermon, every Friday prayer, every altar and podium: Let peace prevail and let everyone vote.

We may worship differently, but we are bound by the same Creator and the same flag. We are Tanzanians first and our unity is more powerful than any division. Mobilise your faithful.

Encourage participation. Preach patriotism. Remind them: To vote is not just a civic act, it is a sacred one too.

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And to the youth of Tanzania and that is to say the digital generation, the meme-makers, the opinion-shapers you are not just the future; you are the now. If you have registered, show up. If not, you are sitting out of history.

Use your social media with wisdom. A single tweet can uplift or incite. A post can spark change or chaos. Choose peace.

Be the reason others believe in the process. Let us flood the polling stations, not just with numbers, but with purpose.

Let us vote with pride, patience and peace. Let us show that in Tanzania, elections are not a cause for fear, but a festival of democracy.

Remember: If you don’t vote, someone else chooses for you. And chances are, they don’t have your best interests at heart. So come October 29th, wear your patriotism like your Sunday best.

Be early. Be peaceful. Be proud and zoom to the ballot box. Tanzania is calling. Don’t let it go to voicemail.