Tanzania: Catholic Church Condemns Killings and Urges Government to Protect Citizens

By Prosper Makene

As the sun set over the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam, the leaders of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) gathered to share their concerns about the recent election-related violence. Led by Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, they expressed their deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the protests.

The TEC leaders noted that the right to demonstrate is a fundamental right enshrined in the country's constitution. However, they lamented that the recent protests had turned violent, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of property. "We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the violence that occurred during the protests," said Bishop Pisa. "We urge the government to investigate these incidents and bring those responsible to justice."

The TEC leaders pointed out that the root causes of the protests were the lack of democracy, human rights abuses, and the failure of the government to address the grievances of its citizens. They called on the government to create a conducive environment for citizens to exercise their rights, including the right to demonstrate peacefully.

"We urge the government to respect the rights of its citizens and to create an environment that allows them to express themselves freely," said Bishop Pisa. "The use of excessive force by security forces is unacceptable and only serves to escalate tensions."

The TEC leaders also expressed concern about the impunity with which security forces seemed to operate, often using live ammunition against unarmed protesters. "We condemn the use of live ammunition against unarmed protesters," said Bishop Pisa. "This is a clear violation of human rights and international law."

The TEC leaders called on the government to engage in dialogue with citizens and address their grievances. They also urged citizens to exercise their rights peacefully and to refrain from violence. "We appeal to all citizens to remain calm and to exercise their rights peacefully," said Bishop Pisa. "Let us work together to build a more just and peaceful society."

As the TEC leaders concluded their statement, they held a moment of silence for those who lost their lives during the protests. They prayed for peace and reconciliation in the country, and for the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens.