Zanzibar stresses religious tolerance

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has urged citizens to uphold religious tolerance, do good deeds, maintain peace, unity and solidarity during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to a statement availed to the media yesterday by yesterday by the Chief Government Spokesperson, Charles Hillary and emphasized the importance of refraining from interfering with an individual’s freedom of worship.
Zanzibar has a long history of religious tolerance where Islam and Christianity religions were introduced earlier and being an important part of the culture which lasted for decades.
“This teaches us the importance of Zanzibaris to uphold religious tolerance, and is the basis of their solidarity,” reads part of the statement.
It said, the government of Zanzibar strongly condemns any acts of violence being done in various parts of the Zanzibar because they contrary to principles of religious tolerance.
Additionally, the government encourages citizens to respect the individual freedom of worship and refrain from any interference in religious practices.
The statement underscores that Zanzibar is governed by a constitution, with the Revolutionary Government having the responsibility to safeguard it and the well-being of its people. Any actions that threaten unity, peace, and solidarity will not be tolerated.
It affirms that the government will continue to safeguard the rights and freedom of worship, as stated in the Constitution of Zanzibar of 1984.
Finally, the statement reiterates the importance of upholding peace and love as taught by religions and urges that religious differences should not disrupt peace, unity, and solidarity.
Recently while gracing the Holy Qur’an Africa Competition in Dar es Salaam Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi echoed the country’s unwavering commitment on fostering freedom of religion as the cornerstone for peace and solidarity.
“Dear Muslims and citizens at large this competition… it stands as a clear proof that you have the freedom of worship in our country. In all years Tanzania has remained to be a good example of people with different religious beliefs, who live together, tolerate each other, cooperate and love one another” he said.
Adding “Freedom of worship is a sole foundation for our sustainable peace which we must cherish for the betterment of the present and incoming generation,” In that regard, he said the government has been providing support to all religions without considering any affiliation or difference in bid of making them undertake prayers.