Tanzania’s Catholic Church Denounces Election Violence, Urges Justice
He stressed that true peace cannot exist without justice, urging leaders to prioritize accountability as a foundation for reconciliation
The Catholic Church in Tanzania has condemned the recent election-related killings, calling the violence a stain on the nation’s image and a violation of human dignity
During a special mass at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral in Dar es Salaam to pray for the victims, Archbishop Yuda Thaddeus Ruwaichi, who chairs the Commission for Justice and Peace of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference, described the deaths as “senseless killings” that have deeply wounded the country’s moral fabric
“There are people who were killed while demonstrating, but the punishment for demonstrating is not being shot dead,” Archbishop Ruwaichi said. “Others were followed and murdered in their own homes. That does not reflect the true image of Tanzania at all. It has no explanation, no forgiveness it is an abomination before God”
He stressed that true peace cannot exist without justice, urging leaders to prioritize accountability as a foundation for reconciliation
“There is no peace without justice,” the archbishop said
The remarks come as Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi announced government plans to pursue reconciliation following post-election tensions, while civil society groups continue to call for independent investigations into alleged abuses
Former Botswana President Ian Khama also criticized the Tanzanian administration, labeling it “illegitimate” and condemning any African leader who kills citizens to stay in power
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Archbishop Ruwaichi lamented the loss of life and national dignity during the unrest. “We have lost dignity because of what happened during the week of the general election. Not only have we lost dignity, but we have also lost people who were killed arbitrarily”
Meanwhile, opposition leader Tundu Lissu’s treason case was postponed after he was not brought to court as scheduled, with authorities citing security concerns affecting witness availability
Writer : Mweru Mbugua
