Tensions Surge as Religious Leaders Intervene in Tanzanian Politics: Bishop Shoo Faces Backlash

By Adonis Byemelwa

In recent weeks, significant controversy has arisen regarding statements made by some religious leaders concerning the governance of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. On October 27, 2024, Dr. Fredrick Shoo, the former head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania, claimed he had been shown in a vision that President Samia would govern for two full terms.

He emphasized her accomplishments and popularity, asserting, "President Samia does not need to be supported inappropriately; she is our president, chosen by God, and as a woman, she deserves to serve two terms. Let us set aside biases and recognize what she has done."

Dr. Shoo's remarks, delivered from the pulpit to enthusiastic applause, have sparked a backlash among some congregants who perceive them as inappropriate political endorsement from a religious figure.

Critics argue that such statements risk entangling the church in political maneuverings aimed at currying favor with those in power. Some pastors from the Evangelical Lutheran Church, who preferred not to be named, expressed concern that religious leaders have ingratiated themselves with political leaders for personal gain.

One pastor stated, "Shoo has embarrassed himself with such wisdom and reputation. Recently, he was given a luxury vehicle upon his retirement. To claim someone is a divine choice is hypocritical and a campaign to divide the faithful."

Conversely, a pastor from the ELCT in Singida defended Dr. Shoo's comments, asserting that bishops are human beings with the right to express their democratic views, and he sees no issue with Dr. Shoo's statement.

This division echoes a historical pattern; similar sentiments were expressed in the early 2000s by former auxiliary Bishop Methodius Kilaini of the Catholic Church in Bukoba, who publicly declared then-President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete as God's choice. His statements eventually led to his reassignment to Bukoba after causing significant controversy among the faithful and opposition politicians.

Political analysts argue that religious leaders, who guide congregants with varying beliefs and ideologies, should focus on preaching and condemning evils rather than engaging in political favoritism. They noted a troubling trend where political leaders provide financial support to churches in exchange for endorsements, a tactic perceived as a strategy to win votes.

This dynamic has been further emphasized by statements from prominent religious figures like Bishop Alex Malasusa, who suggested that divine intervention will determine political outcomes, and Bishop Dr. Cyprian Hilinti, who labeled President Samia as the nation's mother.

A striking pattern has emerged regarding donations made by President Samia to various religious organizations, raising concerns over "planned corruption." Large sums have reportedly been allocated to different churches, including Sh20 million to Bishop Masangwa, Sh150 million to ELCT Hai, Kilimanjaro Region, and Sh100 million to Catholic churches in various locations.

These financial gestures have raised eyebrows among observers who question the motivations behind such funding and its implications for political patronage.

Furthermore, during a mass on October 27, Archbishop Mwijage cautioned Catholics to strengthen their faith and remain wary of misleading promises from certain sects, emphasizing that true progress comes from hard work rather than empty promises of wealth. His remarks reflect a growing concern among religious leaders about the intersection of faith and politics in Tanzania.

Religious leaders and their congregations have been increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with political leaders' attempts to influence religious institutions. Some community members have expressed frustration over the use of church funds, suggesting that the money is derived from exploitative means. One unnamed believer noted, “While churches and mosques may accept these donations, we must recognize that this money comes from exploitation of our resources.”

Amid this heated discourse, Reverend Anthony Lusekelo openly criticized President Samia’s administration for allegedly suppressing freedom of speech and overlooking injustices, particularly the case of Shadrack Chaula, a 24-year-old who disappeared shortly after being released from prison. Chaula had been sentenced for defacing a photograph of the president, which raised serious questions about the government's commitment to upholding human rights.

The practice of politicians distributing funds to religious leaders has a long history in Tanzania, evident in previous instances involving notable figures such as Edward Lowassa. In 2013, Lowassa controversially donated substantial amounts to various religious institutions during fundraisers, stirring public outcry over the implications of such actions. This pattern of behavior highlights the potential for political manipulation within religious contexts, raising ethical questions about the relationship between faith and politics.

Bishop Sylvester Gamanywa of the BCIC in Dar es Salaam has also weighed in, suggesting that divine choice should guide political decisions. He posited that the faithful must decide between "light and darkness," interpreting his message as a call to support certain political leaders over others. This rhetoric further complicates the relationship between political allegiances and religious beliefs among congregants.

Amidst these tensions, Bishop Benson Bagonza of the ELCT has urged the public to recognize the importance of unity within the church while respecting diverse political beliefs. He emphasized that the ELCT is a federation with a single leader and that past leaders do not retain titles that confer authority over current governance. Bagonza's comments reflect a growing call for religious institutions to remain neutral and to focus on their spiritual missions rather than political endorsements.

The prevailing sentiment among many church leaders and congregants is a desire for clarity and separation between church and state, advocating for a return to core religious values and a commitment to addressing societal issues without political bias.

The ongoing debates surrounding the role of religious leaders in politics will likely continue to shape the political landscape in Tanzania as both the church and the state navigate their complex and often intertwined relationships.

Former Chadema Secretary General Wilbrod Slaa has emerged as a prominent critic, boldly asserting that many bishops today are false prophets, using their titles for personal gain rather than the welfare of the nation. He emphasized that the role of a bishop is one of honor and integrity, stating, "If you are a person of justice, you should not care who it is; even if it were my father, I would publicly call him out for the nation's sake."

Slaa called on Bishop Frederick Shoo to repent and seek amnesty, urging him to recognize the moral decay festering within the religious leadership. He decried the rampant corruption among some bishops who accept bribes and indulge in illicit financial gains, asserting that he will not allow money to sway him.

He pointedly remarked that being wealthy was never his goal, but rather using his voice to confront evil so that the nation could thrive. “You claim to build the house of God with dirty money. Every grain of sand should be built with legitimate funds. Even in the Old Testament, what David built was called the holy house,” he asserted.

He didn’t hold back on critiquing the current political landscape, likening the ruling party, CCM, to a tick clinging to a cow’s skin, draining the life out of the nation. The government, in his view, has become a hostile entity that protects its own rather than the citizens, leaving the youth without jobs and the populace struggling to breathe under oppressive policies. “While the church should be a voice of justice, you see bishops endorsing leaders who ignore the plight of the people,” Slaa stated.

Slaa lamented the alarming trend of prioritizing personal interests over community welfare, urging church leaders to stand firm against corruption instead of turning a blind eye. “How can you accept millions while our nation is being robbed? Are you aware of the evils happening in our economy, yet you stay silent?” he questioned, demanding accountability from those in power.

His impassioned speech called for a reevaluation of the moral compass guiding both religious and political leaders. “We should not fear these long-standing religious figures; we have respected them for too long while they lead us astray.

The time has come to speak out against their transgressions,” Slaa concluded, emphasizing the urgent need for integrity and justice in both the church and the state. The future of Tanzania hangs in the balance, and the response of its leaders will determine the path ahead for the nation.

In summary, the recent comments made by religious leaders, particularly Dr. Fredrick Shoo, have ignited a national conversation about the role of faith in politics and the ethical implications of political leaders financially supporting religious institutions.