Archbishop Mndolwa urges respect for Constitution

MBEYA: THE Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Tanzania, The Most Reverend Dr Maimbo Mndolwa, has called on Tanzanians to actively participate in the upcoming General Election later this year, warning that any attempt to postpone it could trigger a serious constitutional crisis.

Archbishop Mndolwa made the remarks yesterday, in Mbeya, during the consecration of Canon Jacob William Kahemele as the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Southern Highlands – Mbeya.

The event was graced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Dr Doto Biteko, who represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

“Postponing the General Election could lead to a major constitutional standoff. If there are challenges, let them be resolved through dialogue,” Archbishop Mndolwa stressed.

He also commended the government for its cooperation with religious institutions and its commitment to upholding freedom of worship in pursuit of national development.

Addressing the congregation, Dr Biteko said that the government under President Samia remains open to constructive dialogue and encourages citizens to present their concerns through proper channels.

“The General Election for the presidency, parliament and local councils, scheduled for October, will be free and fair, conducted in accordance with the Constitution, while maintaining peace and national unity,” he said.

Dr Biteko noted that the government has responded to calls for electoral reform by amending relevant laws and reiterated that President Samia’s administration welcomes continued engagement with stakeholders to ensure progress.

He urged Tanzanians to continue praying for the nation, insisting that peace is vital for the prosperity of both current and future generations.

Highlighting the government’s appreciation of the role of faith-based organisations, Dr Biteko praised the Anglican Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, water access and community development.

He cited the Anglican Diocese of the Southern Highlands, which oversees 37 parishes in Songwe and Mbeya regions, as a key partner in delivering spiritual and social services.

“Between 2016 and 2025, the church, in partnership with stakeholders, has invested over 5bn/- in projects such as ‘Dreams and Archive.’ These initiatives have provided vocational training and health services to girls and children living with HIV in Mbeya, Songwe and Tunduma,” he explained.

The projects have supported over 160,000 individuals facing socio-economic challenges and helped more than 150 beneficiaries increase their incomes and improve their livelihoods.

Dr Biteko reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with the church to advance national development goals.

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He also congratulated Bishop Kahemele on assuming his new role and urged parishioners to support and encourage their leader, particularly in times of difficulty.

“We applaud your dedication to God, your obedience to your spiritual calling and your visionary leadership. The government assures you of our continued collaboration with the diocese under your stewardship, to promote unity, uphold national values and foster social cohesion,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of State in the President’s Office, George Mkuchika, called on Anglican Church members to remain united and supportive of their new bishop as he takes on his pastoral responsibilities.

He stressed that the government listens to its people and urged that elections be a source of unity, not division.

He encouraged eligible citizens to contest leadership positions through the appropriate legal processes.

In his sermon, The Right Reverend Bishop Sospeter Ndenza reminded the congregation of the solemn responsibilities of a bishop, who serves as chief priest and shepherd on behalf of Christ, overseeing church discipline, worship and sacraments.

“This sacred duty requires leadership and divine wisdom. Jacob (Kahemele), as you prepare for consecration, pray for wisdom and virtue to truly represent Christ,” said Bishop Ndenza.

He urged the new bishop not to be discouraged by opposition, but to remain humble and rely on God’s guidance.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Kahemele pledged to pray for government leaders, so they may continue to lead with peace and wisdom.

“Under our leadership, we will emphasise prayer and spiritual revival to strengthen faith and shield believers from deception. We believe we are called to serve through worship, integrity and support for those in need,” he said.

Bishop Kahemele also raised concerns about the rising challenges facing youth, including use of alcohol, smoking and gambling.

He urged the government to regulate the sale and distribution of such products more strictly. Despite these challenges, he commended the government for implementing strategic development projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and called for the extension of the railway to connect Mbeya and Dar es Salaam, to boost the regional economy.

The consecration ceremony was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including the Speaker of the National Assembly and President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, (IPU) Dr Tulia Ackson and Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Professor Palamagamba Kabudi.