Mwinyi commits to strengthening freedom of worship

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding freedom of worship and has encouraged religious institutions to continue praying for peace and unity across the nation.

President Mwinyi highlighted the significant role that religious institutions play in cooperating with the government and supporting efforts to bring about peace, unity and solidarity among Tanzanians.

He made the statement during a special prayer service honouring Bishop Augustino Shao for his prophetic service to the Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar, held at the Mao Tse Tung Grounds in Urban West Region.

He also commended the decision to honour Bishop Shao and pray for the nation, describing it as a noble act, given the church’s achievements under his leadership.

President Mwinyi acknowledged the planned restoration of the Minara Miwili (Twin Towers) Church and noted the church’s collaboration with the government and UNESCO to preserve Zanzibar’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To support these efforts, he contributed 100m/- while Union President Samia Suluhu Hassan donated an additional 50m/- for the restoration of St Joseph’s Church in Shangani, Mjini District, a well-known landmark popular with tourists.

President Mwinyi urged Catholic congregants to continue praying for the nation’s peace, noting that peace is a vital pillar for unity, harmony and love, which together foster substantial national development.

He assured worshippers of all faiths that the government remains committed to addressing the challenges facing religious institutions to enable them to fulfil their roles more effectively.

Bishop Shao of the Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar condemned some opposition politicians for failing to appreciate the substantial progress achieved under Dr Mwinyi’s administration.

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Bishop Shao expressed that it is a great wrongdoing for people to blind themselves to the positive actions taken by the government in various sectors.

Representing President Samia, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr William Lukuvi, affirmed the government’s continued cooperation with the Catholic Church of Tanzania and called on its followers to support the leaders’ efforts to foster development.

The Regional Commissioner of Urban West, Idrissa Kitwana Mustafa, assured the Catholic faithful that the region prioritises security, peace and freedom of worship for all denominations and that the area remains secure.