Religious Leaders Urged to Safeguard National Unity and Pray for the Country’s Leadership

"I kindly urge you to ensure that you keep praying for our country so that it continues to enjoy peace, and for our President currently in office. Tanzania has long been a peaceful nation, and many envy the peace we enjoy. You, as religious leaders, are the ones responsible for sustaining this peace through continuous prayers."

These were the words of Rajab Abdarahim, Member of the CCM National Executive Committee and CCM Chairman for Tanga Region, during the 85th graduation ceremony of Sakila Bible College held in Arumeru District, Arusha Region. A total of 66 students graduated with diploma-level qualifications during the ceremony.

Speaking to the graduates and invited guests, Abdarahim emphasized the vital role religious leaders play in maintaining peace, unity, and moral integrity within society. He urged them to set an example through their conduct and teachings.

"As religious leaders, you are called to serve faithfully by preaching the Gospel and ensuring you pray for the peace of the nation and its leaders. That is your divine mission—not to cause division or conflict."

He further stressed the importance of unity among religious leaders regardless of denominational differences, stating that they should work together for the common good of the nation.

"Religious leaders must never be a source of division. Instead, they should be the bridge that unites the community. This nation belongs to all of us, and it is your responsibility to guard it through prayer and upright teachings."

Also speaking at the event was Bishop Dr. Eliud Issangya, the Presiding Bishop of International Evangelism Churches in Tanzania, who condemned the rising trend of people insulting national leaders. He warned that such actions bring curses rather than solutions.

"It is unacceptable for our President to be insulted while we, as religious leaders, remain silent. What is required of us is prayer, not slander. We must respect our leaders and pray for them so that we may live long and peacefully on this earth."

Bishop Issangya reminded his fellow clergy that their spiritual calling is to intercede for the nation and its leadership, so that governance is carried out with divine guidance.

"As religious leaders, our calling is to pray for our country’s continued peace and to intercede for those in power so they may be led by the Spirit of God."

During the ceremony, one of the graduates read a statement highlighting several challenges, particularly the poor road infrastructure between Kikatiti and Sakila. 

The graduate appealed to the government to pave the road with tarmac to boost business and improve accessibility.

"We urge the government to upgrade the Kikatiti–Sakila road to tarmac, as it would significantly enhance local commerce. Additionally, we call on those criticizing President Samia to stop immediately. It is wrong and disrespectful. Instead, we should respect and pray for our leaders."

The graduation ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the critical role that faith-based leadership plays in nurturing peace, promoting national unity, and guiding the moral compass of society. The graduates were encouraged to become ambassadors of the Gospel, peace, and ethical leadership in the communities they will serve.