PM orders traditional guards to respect freedom of worship

SHINYANGA: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has directed traditional guards groups ‘Sungusungu’ to respect freedom of worship and refrain from discriminating against people or forcing them to participate in practices that conflict with their religious beliefs.

He warned that excluding people on religious grounds could fuel divisions and undermine peace and unity within communities.

Dr Nchemba issued the directive today during a public meeting at Singita Village, Usanda Ward, in Itwangi Constituency, Shinyanga District, where he was listening to residents’ concerns.

“If someone’s faith does not allow them to undergo vaccination, we should not force them, nor should we discriminate against them,” he said.

The Prime Minister was responding to concerns raised by a resident, Simon John, who claimed that his pastor had been isolated after refusing to participate in some Sungusungu practices, with worshippers allegedly being discouraged from attending his church.

Addressing the Sungusungu leader present at the meeting, Dr Nchemba directed the group to stop discriminating against the pastor and ensure his security.

“Do not create problems with that pastor. Give him protection and do not isolate him,” he said.

He further instructed the groups to allow believers, including their own members, to attend services at the pastor’s church, stressing that religious differences should not be a basis for discrimination or exclusion.

In another development, Dr Nchemba said he would write to the Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office responsible for Public Service Management and Good Governance, seeking employment for two volunteer teachers who have served for more than five years.

He said the teachers deserved recognition for their contribution to improving academic performance at Masunula Primary School, which secured second position nationally.

The Prime Minister’s intervention followed concerns over the teachers’ long-standing voluntary service and their contribution to the school’s academic achievement.