Religious leaders, citizens hail forces for restoring peace

ARUSHA: RELIGIOUS leaders and citizens have commended Tanzania’s security and defence forces for restoring calm and ensuring that peace, described as the nation’s most valuable treasure prevails across all regions of the country.

Speaking to the Daily News, Secretary General of the Tanzania Reconciliation and Peace Association (JMAT) Bishop Israel Maasa praised the security organs for their swift action in restoring order.

He said that no religious scripture supports the disruption of peace, stressing that maintaining harmony is a moral and national duty.

“We must learn from this and protect peace,” said Bishop Maasa.

He further underscored that peace is the foundation upon which democracy and freedom stand, noting that without peace, no form of progress is possible.

Bishop Maasa urged citizens to reflect on the lessons learned from the unrest witnessed in the past few days.

In Manyara Region, religious leaders echoed similar sentiments, calling for continuous efforts to promote peace, unity, and patriotism grounded in integrity and respect for all.

The Presiding Pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT), Narakauo Parish in Simanjiro District, Godliven Mkenda, emphasised the need for sustained religious and civic education among young people, including street groups and motorcycle taxi operators (bodaboda), to strengthen harmony in communities.

“Religious leaders should not limit their preaching to houses of worship where they only meet their congregants,” he said.

“We must reach out to all groups and organise seminars on moral values and the Word of God. The recent unrest reflects a decline in societal morals, especially among the youth.”

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The Regional Sheikh of Manyara Mr Mohammad Kadidi called on both leaders and citizens to engage in selfreflection and open dialogue as a means of reconciliation.

“Despite grievances and complaints that may arise, everything should be handled peacefully and calmly to reach consensus, because no one is perfect except Almighty God,” said Sheikh Kadidi.

He stressed that peace remains the cornerstone of the nation, without it, he warned, hatred and division take root. Residents also voiced appreciation for the restoration of order.

A resident of Kwamrombo in Arusha, Samweli Noel said fear had gripped the city just a few days ago.

“Young people, even when you face challenges, local governments and leaders are there to help resolve them. Don’t let anyone influence you to cause chaos,” he said.

“Peace is our greatest treasure. If problems arise, they should be solved through proper channels, not through violence that leads to arrests, loss of life, or children missing school.”