Govt urges clerics to preach peace, unity

Dar es Salaam. The government has reiterated its call to religious leaders to work towards promoting peace, urging them to avoid inciting statements.

According to the minister for State in the President’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government, Mr Selemani Jafo, leadership is expected to play a crucial role in the process of maintaining religious tolerance and forbearance.

Representing President John Magufuli, who was supposed to be a guest of honour during the national Maulid Day which took place in Korogwe District in Tanga, Mr Jafo said that it is important for those entrusted with religious leadership to be aware of the delicacy of positions they hold and the consequences of both their teachings and practices.

“Leadership is not a guarantee,” warned Mr Jafo when addressing a crowd of jubilant Muslims who were observing the birth their religious leader, Prophet Muhammad.

“Those entrusted with power are supposed to serve people well for God will take them to task one day.”

Along the responsibility of promoting peace and cohesion within the communities, the Muslim clerics were also reminded of their roles in protecting the youth from engaging in negative conducts that not only put their future life in jeopardy but also the very sustainability of the government plans for developing the nation are affected.

Meanwhile, the Chief Mufti Sheikh Aboubakary Zubeiry of the National Muslim Council of Tanzania (Bakwata) commemorated the Maulid Day by urging the Muslim clerics in the country to work towards building unity and solidarity.