Christian leaders in Tanzania have launched an appeal to stop manipulation of citizens by politicians ahead of the Oct. 25 general elections in the country.
In a joint appeal launched by the Episcopal Conference of Tanzania and the Christians Council of Tanzania, the leaders state, «Beware of politicians who aim at dividing the population on the basis of a religious or ethnic group in order to obtain electoral advantage,» reported Fides. They underscored that even if Tanzanians have different political visions, they are still to be part of a single country.
«Do not let anyone treat you as a commodity, to buy you to breach peace,» they exhorted, recalling that, «Those who make peace in this nation are the same Tanzanians.»
The appeal concluded, calling for people to make their priority «safeguarding peace for prosperity and future generations.»
With a growth rate of 7 percent each year, Tanzania is considered one of the most stable countries in Africa. In spite of this, most Tanzanians live below the poverty line. The frustration among the population is said to be caused primarily by the unequal distribution of resources.
In the African nation, there are some 9 million Catholics, roughly a quarter of the total population. (D.C.L.)
