Clerics condemn same-sex relationships, child marriage

Bunda/Arusha/Tanga. In their Christmas messages, clerics yesterday spoke strongly against same sex relationships as well as child marriage. They said that same sex relationships were contrary to God’s principles and laws.

The clerics condemned the use of contraceptives or family planning methods arguing that these only led to abortions, hence threatening continuation of human generation. The leaders also reiterated their calls to the public to pray for those in power so that the latter would conduct themselves in within the laws of the land.

In a mass service in Bunda, Bishop Renatus Mkwande urged Tanzanians to refrain from engaging in same sex relationships because it was against God’s directives.

“Some men and women engage in same sex relationships. This is against God’s plan and against the country’s laws,” said Mr Mkwande.

In Arusha, thousands of believers thronged the churches for Christmas service yesterday and later for merry making despite earlier complaints over foodstuff price hikes.

The day started calmly as the city centre was almost deserted in the morning but things started changing later.

By afternoon, no serious crime had been reported even after night long vigil services in churches and entertainment at joints from Monday evening. Most businesses like shops remained closed yesterday.

On Monday, residents lamented of the hiking of prices for basic needs.

One Suzan Maro told The Citizen that the price of rice had shot up to Sh2,000 per kilo from Sh1,600.

“Even the price of sugar has climbed to Sh2,500 from Sh2,300 per kilo,” she said.

She pointed the accusing finger at traders saying they simply were taking advantage of the high demand to hike prices.

Ms Anna John, another resident, said the price of Irish potatoes had also shot up to Sh5,000 for a plastic bail that normally cost Sh3,000.

Tomatoes and onions were also not spared from price hike.

They were selling at between Sh6,000 and Sh7,000 per four-kilo container from Sh5,000.

News from Tanga had it that one woman had died. A Kange Kasera Street resident, Amina Zuberi, 28, who was a petty trader was attacked by unknown people on Christmas eve.

Tanga Regional Police Commander Edward Bukombe told The Citizen that Ms Zuberi was attacked with a sharp object that caused serious wounds, and she was not very far from he home.

He said Ms Zuberi died at Tanga’s Bombo Hospital while receiving treatment.

Neighbours said Ms Zuberi left home at 2pm to a store to buy wheat flour and sugar for preparation of breakfast bites but never returned. They launched a search and later found her in a bad condition after she was assaulted by unknown people.

RPC Bukombe said: “Ms Zuberi was attacked with a sharp object. We have launched investigations into the matter. We’ll arrest those who were involved.