Mbeto urges religious leaders to promote national unity

Unguja. The ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has called on religious leaders across the country to continue playing a key role in promoting national unity, peace, and social harmony particularly as Tanzania approaches the October 2025 General Election.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement in Zanzibar, Khamis Mbeto Khamis, Secretary of the CCM National Executive Committee’s Special Department for Ideology, Publicity, and Training, underscored the need for religious leaders to guide their congregations in a manner that fosters collective understanding and nation-building.

“Tanzania must come first before individual beliefs or affiliations,” said Mr Mbeto. “As we move closer to the elections, there is a greater need to reinforce our shared values and unity as Tanzanians.”

He noted that while diversity in faith and background is a strength, the country must remain vigilant against any tendencies that could lead to division, especially during the politically active period.

He urged religious leaders to avoid rhetoric that may unintentionally fuel polarisation, and instead focus on messages that promote mutual respect and national cohesion.

Mr Mbeto also encouraged religious institutions to reflect on the example set by the founding father of the nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, who led Tanzania with a vision grounded in unity and inclusiveness.

“Throughout his leadership, Mwalimu Nyerere believed deeply in national unity over any form of religious or ethnic division. That principle remains a cornerstone of our identity today,” he said.

He added that while political discourse is part of democratic practice, it should not compromise the country’s commitment to peace and shared progress. Religious leaders, he said, have a vital role in ensuring their platforms are used to support dialogue, understanding, and responsible citizenship.

Mr Mbeto further advised religious figures to uphold neutrality and refrain from direct political engagement, focusing instead on promoting peace, stability, and unity through teachings that align with Tanzania’s development goals.

“Your voices matter,” he said. “Let them continue to inspire hope, togetherness, and the common good values that have long defined our national character.”

The call aligns with ongoing efforts to encourage issue-based politics and civic awareness as the country prepares for its next electoral cycle.