Clerics warned not to turn houses of worship into political platforms

DAR ES SALAAM: The Director of Msama Promotions and veteran gospel music promoter, Alex Msama, has urged Tanzanians to refrain from turning houses of worship into political platforms, warning that such actions undermine respect for authority and distort religious values.

Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam today, June 8, 2025, Msama called on Tanzania citizens to exercise wisdom and self-restraint, especially as the country heads toward the general election. He emphasized that provocative remarks or political attacks on national leaders should have no place in religious gatherings.

“The worst, saddest, and most painful thing is when politics is dragged into our places of worship,” he said. “We should never allow the altar, which is a sacred space for prayer, to be used for political statements.”

Citing the Bible, Msama referenced Romans 13:1–2, reminding believers that all authority is instituted by God and deserves respect. He noted that Tanzania’s current leaders are divinely appointed and should not be ridiculed or disrespected.

“The Bible clearly says: ‘Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.’ We should pray for our leaders, especially our President, Mama Samia Suluhu Hassan, as she completes her first term in office.”

Msama also called on religious leaders to uphold the sanctity of the altar by remaining apolitical and focusing on spiritual nourishment.

“Matthew 21:13 says: ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer’—not a political forum,” he stressed. “If we allow politics to dominate the pulpit, we risk dividing believers and losing the true essence of worship.”

He further urged Tanzanians to approach the upcoming elections with a spirit of peace, unity, and national dignity.

ALSO READ: Samia conveys Eid greetings, insists on peace, obedience to God

“This is a time to show wisdom and respect for authority,” he said. “Let us not be misled by inflammatory content on social media or political rhetoric that brings division. Our greatest tools right now are prayer and understanding.”

Msama, one of the country’s longest-serving gospel event organizers and a media owner, concluded by reaffirming his commitment to using his platform to promote peace, patriotism, and spiritual growth among Tanzanians.