BAKWATA urges Tanzanians to uphold peace
BUKOBA: THE National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA) Sheikh Hamis Mataka, has urged religious leaders and all Tanzanians, in their respective capacities to safeguard and maintain the nation’s existing peace.
Sheikh Mataka made the remarks recently during special prayers held at Butainamwa Village in Bukoba DC’s Kasharu Ward.
The prayers were organised by the family of the late Captain Mohamed Kaboyo.
“Anything that does not unite people and promote peace is not truthful. Leaders of all faiths must serve as role models for tolerance and coexistence. Faith leaders have a moral responsibility to unite Tanzanians through messages of love and reconciliation rather than words that could incite division or hatred,” Sheikh Mataka said.
Speaking on behalf of the Tanzania Mufti, Sheikh Dr Abubakar Zuber Bin Ally, Sheikh Mataka also commended families who conduct regular prayers to remember departed souls, noting that such practices align with the teachings of the Holy Quran.
He said conducting prayers for departed souls is commendable, highlighting that all religions encourage followers to emulate such acts of compassion and remembrance.
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“The Quran and Hadith encourage Muslims to ask Allah for mercy, forgiveness and a high place in Paradise for the departed. Such prayers reflect love, compassion and the bond of faith that continues beyond death. We, who are still alive, have an obligation to pray to Allah for His forgiveness and a peaceful rest for departed souls. To implore Allah is to trust and accept His absolute authority to answer our prayers. It is also an acceptance that Allah alone has the power to cure and alleviate the hardships of those we pray for.” He stated.
Sheikh Mataka also cited section 40:60 of the Holy Quran, which reads: “Your Lord says, Implode Me and I will respond to you. Surely those who are too arrogant to worship Me will enter Hell forcibly.”
Speaking during the event, Capt Kaboyo said that for the past ten years, his family has been uniting to conduct prayers for departed loved ones.
