Biteko stresses peace, reconciliation

DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Dr Doto Biteko has called upon Tanzanians to embrace reconciliation, perseverance and mutual tolerance as essential values for upholding the country’s peace and tranquillity.

Dr Biteko said that differences in religious beliefs, income and age have existed since ancient times but have never led to a breach of peace, as Tanzanians have consistently lived with tolerance, patience and mutual understanding.

The Deputy Premier made the remarks in Dar es Salaam on Saturday while representing Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango at the Peace Symposium organised by Tanzania Reconciliation and Peace Association (JMAT) as part of the commemoration of the International Day of Peace which is marked annually on September 21.

He said Tanzanians should prioritise and preserve their Tanzanian identity by avoiding any reasons that could lead to the disruption of peace that has been built at a great cost by the founders of the nation.

The Vice President reminded them to appreciate the beauty of the country, created by God and its rich history of brotherhood founded by their forefathers, which allows everyone to thrive peacefully as Tanzanians.

Dr Biteko emphasised that despite being a multi-tribal and multi-religious nation with diverse economic and social classes, ideologies and cultural beliefs, Tanzania’s national unity has remained strong.

“Our diversity has never given us a reason to compromise our peace. We thrive by tolerating, reconciling and agreeing with one another. This is the philosophy that President Samia has been consistently stressing,” said Dr Biteko.

He called on Tanzanians to love one another, resonating with their faiths’ teachings that advocate for endurance and, selfless love.

Dr Biteko highlighted that many men and women have worked tirelessly to secure the peace enjoyed today, stressing that it is essential to maintain it at all costs.

“Our Tanzanian identity is important, and we must nurture it. Our peace is like a large tree among many others that we should protect and nourish. If anyone tries to cut it down, they may believe they are benefiting at the expense of others, but I remind you that when peace is lost, the suffering is not confined to just one person,” he noted.

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The Deputy Prime Minister commended JMAT for its ongoing efforts to unite all Tanzanians through discussions aimed at promoting peace and national unity.

He urged religious leaders to encourage their followers to exercise their civic rights by participating in the upcoming local government election through vying for positions and voting for leaders committed to serve the public.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of peaceful and respectful campaigns that focus on constructive persuasion rather than attacking anyone’s dignity.

For his part, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and People with Disabilities, Mr Amon Mpanju, noted that peace begins within oneself and is essential for families to thrive.

He pointed out that the increase in immoralities and violence within households stems from lack of peace between individuals, calling for concerted efforts to promote peace, including condemning those who seek to disrupt it.

For his part, JMAT Chairperson Sheikh Alhad Mussa said that Tanzania’s peace is a unique gem that enables people from different communities and religions to interact without conflict.

He emphasised that the symposium itself was a clear evidence that Tanzanians demonstrate brotherhood and humanity and humility reflecting a commitment to serving God.

Sheikh Hilal Shaweji, famous as Sheikh Kipozeo, said that for society to live in happiness and tranquility, it is essential to protect the existing peace and avoid taking it for granted, as restoring peace once lost comes at a significant cost.

JMAT Dar es salaam Regional Chairperson, Reverend Christosiler Kalata, presenting a discussion on protecting and upholding peace based on biblical principles, emphasised the importance of forgiveness and mutual understanding, highlighting the compassion and mercy of God.

“No one can set conditions for mercy and forgiveness; true peace endures as an act of God’s free grace. Therefore, let us not put ourselves at risk of opposing the complete freedom of love that God desires for every individual, whether a political leader, a religious figure, or anyone else. Peace is safeguarded by acts of compassion,” he said.

Rev Kalata urged that the essence of peace in life stems from the love filled with compassion that God extends to humanity, encouraging Tanzanians not to allow suffering and various struggles in life to disrupt the peace they enjoy.