Tanzania’s Dr. Fredrick Shoo Calls for Unity and Ethical Leadership in Stirring CCT Day Address

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a momentous event streamed live on the prestigious Upendo Television of the East and Coast Dioceses, Dr. Fredrick Shoo, the esteemed Chairman of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) and distinguished Head of the Northern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania, delivered a stirring address that resonated with profound significance.

Against the backdrop of the culminating celebrations of CCT Day in the vibrant Mtwara region, Dr. Shoo's impassioned call to action reverberated far and wide, capturing the hearts and minds of Tanzanians across the nation. The event took place on May 26th, 2024.

"Selfishness is a deadly poison that has seeped into the fabric of our society, leading some individuals to pursue personal gain at the expense of the nation's interests," declared Dr. Shoo.

His words carried a weighty admonition, as he warned against the perils of prioritizing individual ambitions over the collective well-being of the nation.

With characteristic fervor, Dr. Shoo underscored the imperative of unity, integrity, and service to counteract the divisive forces of selfishness and corruption.

Reflecting on the profound implications of selfishness, Dr. Shoo lamented its corrosive impact on familial bonds and community cohesion.

"Disagreements within the church are the result of excessive selfishness and failure to stand with God," he asserted, drawing attention to the erosion of trust and unity within religious congregations. His poignant observation resonated with congregants and leaders alike, highlighting the urgent need for spiritual renewal and moral fortitude in the face of moral decay.

Turning his attention to the political sphere, Dr. Shoo condemned the prevalence of self-serving agendas within political parties, which he described as breeding grounds for conflict and discord. "Each person looks after their interests and not the welfare of the group, nation, or future generations," he remarked, casting a sobering spotlight on the ethical lapses that undermine democratic governance.

 With characteristic candor, Dr. Shoo exhorted political leaders to rekindle the spirit of selfless service and uphold the principles of justice and accountability.

Amidst the prevailing climate of uncertainty and disillusionment, Dr. Shoo's clarion call for ethical leadership struck a chord with Tanzanians across the nation.

 His impassioned plea for unity and integrity served as a rallying cry for a populace weary of political intrigue and moral compromise. "Let's have unity, no divided voices," he implored, urging citizens to transcend partisan divides and prioritize the common good in the forthcoming elections.

In envisioning a brighter future for Tanzania, Dr. Shoo challenged his fellow citizens to contemplate the legacy they wish to leave for future generations.

 "What kind of Tanzania do we want 100 years from now after those currently in power have passed away?" he posed, prompting a moment of introspection and collective soul-searching.

 His words resonated with a sense of urgency, compelling Tanzanians to consider the long-term implications of their electoral choices on the nation's trajectory.

Dr. Shoo reaffirmed his commitment to combating corruption and safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

"There is a big problem of corruption in elections," he acknowledged, acknowledging the systemic challenges that undermine democratic governance. Yet, amidst the prevailing challenges, Dr. Shoo remained undeterred in his pursuit of justice and accountability, vowing to stand alongside fellow citizens in rejecting bribery and malpractice.

As Dr. Shoo's impassioned address reverberated across the nation, it elicited a groundswell of support and solidarity from citizens and leaders alike. His steadfast commitment to the principles of integrity, unity, and service served as a beacon of hope in an increasingly uncertain landscape. "With unity, if we shout together, they will respect and implement," he declared, rallying Tanzanians to unite in defense of their shared values and aspirations.

In a parallel development, Abdulrahman Kinana, Deputy Chairman of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), echoed Dr. Shoo's call for ethical leadership and accountability within the political sphere. Emphasizing the importance of leaders who are accountable to their constituents and free from corrupt influences, Kinana's remarks underscored the imperative of integrity in governance.

Tanzania stands at a crossroads, Dr. Shoo's impassioned plea for ethical leadership and civic responsibility serves as a clarion call for collective action. With the forthcoming elections looming large on the horizon, Tanzanians are faced with a pivotal choice – to embrace the principles of integrity, unity, and service espoused by Dr. Shoo, or to succumb to the corrosive forces of selfishness and corruption.

In the crucible of this moment, the fate of the nation hangs in the balance – a testament to the enduring legacy of courage, conviction, and moral clarity embodied by Dr. Fredrick Shoo and leaders like him.