Religious leaders want Chadema involved in reconciliation process

Dar es Salaam. Clerics, through the  society for reconciliation have urged the government to involve opposition Chadema in finding a solution to a ‘political stalemate’ in the country.

Their call comes just a few days after the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRGG) unsuccessfully tried to address standoff between the two parties.

Chadema and the political parties registrar, Mr Francis Mutungi, attended the meeting while CCM, police and Attorney General didn’t. 

Speaking in the city yesterday, the secretary general of the society for reconciliation, reverend Osward Mlay, said there was a need for the the government and Chadema to participate in a dialogue, which, he said, is one of the best ways to maintain the country’s peace and harmony.

Mr Mlay said political leaders should know that their main objective is to make sure that country’s peace is preserved no matter what the price.

“Political leaders should realize that they’re obliged to observe principals of good governance and the rule of law in order to maintain country’s peace,” said Mr Mlay.

On his side Mr Mohammed Bashir called for politicians to respect the constitution.

He also called urged the public to refrain from unlawful gathering and demonstrations.

Chadema plans to hold public rallies from September 1 in protest of what they termed suppression of democracy by President John Magufuli