Tanzania: Bishop Malasusa’s Extended Tenure-Stability or Suppressed Dissent in ELCT?

By Adonis Byemelwa

The decision to extend Bishop Alex Malasusa’s tenure as the head of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese (ECD) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) has sparked mixed reactions among clergy and congregants across the dioceses.

The announcement, put in limelight by Upendo Media via social platforms, revealed that the extension was unanimously approved during the 37th General Assembly of the ECD. This decision allows Bishop Malasusa to continue leading the diocese until he completes his term as the national head of the ELCT in 2028.

The move to extend Malasusa’s tenure was defended by the ECD council, which argued that it would enable him to fulfill his responsibilities as the presiding bishop of the ELCT without undue pressure.

The council emphasized that the dual roles require stability and continuity in leadership, particularly during a pivotal period for the church.

However, the decision has not been universally welcomed. Clergy members from various dioceses, many of whom requested anonymity, expressed reservations about the process.

Some voiced concerns over transparency, questioning whether the extension disregarded constitutional provisions that limit terms of service.

One pastor remarked, “While we respect Bishop Malasusa’s leadership, the church must adhere strictly to its constitution. This decision sets a precedent that could undermine institutional integrity.”

Others, however, supported the extension, viewing it as necessary for maintaining unity within the church. A senior pastor stated, “The ELCT is navigating significant challenges both internally and externally. Bishop Malasusa has the experience and composure needed to steer us through these times.”

Bishop Malasusa’s leadership has been a subject of both admiration and controversy. He previously held the presiding bishop role from 2007 to 2015 before passing the mantle to Bishop Fredrick Shoo.

His reelection in August 2023 was met with criticism, with some questioning the eligibility of a former presiding bishop to run for the position again under the ELCT’s constitution.

Article 21 of the revised ELCT constitution stipulates that candidates for presiding bishop must currently serve as diocesan bishops and be below the retirement age of 65. Malasusa’s candidacy, while technically compliant, reignited debates about fairness and transparency.

Adding to the contentious atmosphere, the election process itself drew scrutiny. Initial rounds of voting in the August 2023 general assembly did not produce a candidate with the required two-thirds majority.

After three rounds, Malasusa was declared the winner based on a simple majority, securing 167 out of 241 votes cast in the final round.
While his supporters celebrated the victory, critics like Bishop Benson Bagonza, known for his vocal stance on governance issues, openly challenged the legitimacy of the process.

Bishop Benson Bagonza of the Karagwe Diocese has publicly questioned the transparency of Bishop Alex Malasusa's election, highlighting frustrations over internal conflicts within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT).

Ongoing disputes, such as those in the Konde Diocese, underscore tensions between diocesan autonomy and centralized authority, exacerbated by the lack of clear constitutional mechanisms for conflict resolution.

Amid these challenges, Malasusa has pledged to prioritize unity and address critical issues. His January 2024 inauguration as ELCT's national head, attended by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasized his leadership responsibilities, with calls for justice and courage resonating through a sermon by Dr. Christian Samraj.
Nevertheless, debates over proposed constitutional reforms continue to divide opinions, with some viewing them as necessary for clarity and others fearing they could undermine diocesan independence.

Amid these debates, many pastors have called for introspection and dialogue. “The ELCT is at a crossroads,” said one clergyman. “We must focus on our mission and values while resolving these internal disputes with humility and grace.”
Another pastor added, “This is a time for reconciliation, not division. We need to work together to ensure that the church remains a beacon of hope and faith for all.”
Bishop Malasusa’s extended term as ECD head signifies both an opportunity and a challenge. While his leadership offers continuity, the controversies surrounding his reelection and the broader governance issues within the ELCT highlight the need for clear communication, transparency, and a renewed commitment to unity.
The decision to extend Bishop Alex Malasusa’s term as the head of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania has been a polarizing topic.
Church leaders unanimously endorsed the move, emphasizing its necessity to allow him to complete his duties as the national head of the ELCT, a position he holds until 2028.
Supporters heralded the decision as a practical step toward stability, with many citing his extensive experience and steady leadership as crucial during a time of internal and external challenges for the church.
Behind the scenes, however, dissenting voices have grown quieter. Critics within the church, particularly those opposing the extension, have seen their influence muted in subtle yet effective ways.
Social media platforms and WhatsApp groups once brimming with fiery debates and critiques now appear cleansed of dissenting posts. Observers note that messages critical of Malasusa or the election process have been deleted or silenced, leaving little room for opposing narratives to gain traction.
The muted dissent reflects the weight of Malasusa’s influence and the broader push within the ELCT to project unity. The election process itself had its share of controversies, with multiple voting rounds required to secure Malasusa’s victory.
Questions over constitutional adherence and fairness swirled, particularly as critics like Bishop Benson Bagonza expressed dissatisfaction both publicly and privately. Yet, those raising concerns about governance and transparency now find themselves sidelined.
Supporters of Malasusa argue that these measures are necessary to prevent further division within the church.
His proponents maintain that the church’s mission of spiritual leadership and social unity is paramount, and distractions from internal politics risk undermining that purpose.
In their view, extending his term ensures continuity at a critical time when the church faces mounting challenges, from societal issues to internal governance disputes.
The ELCT, celebrating six decades of ministry, stands at a crossroads. While the decision to extend Malasusa’s leadership marks a moment of consolidation for his supporters, it also signals a clear message to dissenters.
Those unwilling to align with the prevailing direction find their platforms dwindling, their criticisms relegated to whispers. For the broader congregation, the path forward will hinge on reconciling these internal rifts, addressing legitimate concerns about governance, and fostering a spirit of unity that transcends personal or political divides.
The church’s next steps will determine whether it emerges stronger and more united or burdened by unresolved tensions.
As the ELCT navigates this delicate balance, the muted voices within its ranks are a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in leading one of Tanzania’s most influential spiritual institutions.
Bishop Malasusa’s extended term may bring stability, but the cost of dissent being stifled is a question that lingers among those watching from within and beyond.