Govt promises to uphold freedom of worship.

President Jakaya Kikwete.

President Jakaya Kikwete has promised religious leaders that the government will continue with efforts to ensure that all religious activities in the country along with the right to worship are respected and upheld.

 

He made the promise in Shinyanga on Sunday during the consecration of Bishop Liberatus Sangu of the Roman Catholic Church, Shinyanga Diocese, held at the Ngokolo Cathedral.

 

The President said it was the government responsibility to ensure that freedom of worship prevails and is respected.

 

He said this was because it is the constitutional right which is contained in the country’s proposed constitution.

 

He told the audience at the ceremony that the government would continue to collaborate with religious denominations in economic and social activities.

 

He said: “We have been granting tax exemptions on various activities carried out by religious entities … sometimes the government makes contributions in cash and kind to some activities, especially in health and education sectors.

 

“The government will continue to support you in recognition of the great contribution by religious institution you make towards the 

 

country’s development and welfare of its people.”

 

He called upon religious leaders not to allow people with evil intentions to misuse opportunities granted to them, such as tax exemptions.

 

President Kikwete said the fact that the government collaborates with religious institutions helps to create, strengthen and maintain peace, unity and harmony in the country.

 

The president called on religious leaders not to allow politicians to use religions to fulfill their political motives as the country is heading towards the General Election next October and advised them: 

 

“Discourage your followers from listening to politicians who want to divide the nation. Instead you should preach peace and unity… don’t allow politicians to interfere with religion.

 

“Churches and mosques should remain as places for prayers and not political forums… they should be places for uniting all the people.’ 

 

He dissuaded religious leaders from allowing political affiliations to divide them. He warned that mixing religion with politics was dangerous for the country’s security, peace and harmony.