State censures devious traditional healers

ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan said yesterday that public awareness and education are among effective ways to stop traditional healers from practicing witchcraft and divination that incite hostility and murder in the society.

She advised religious leaders in the country to encourage the public to abide by Tanzanian tradition, customs and values.

The Head of State told religious leaders to put emphasis on education, saying it is the only way to change people’s attitude and understanding.

“Let us condemn the practices and at the same time provide education so that people can understand the bad side of these actions. We have no problem with traditional medicines as many people have been benefiting, but we must fight against those who tarnish the good image of traditional healers into witchcraft,” said President Samia.

President Samia was speaking during the Muslim women gathering to celebrate the Islamic New Year (1446) in Zanzibar. The Head of State asked government institutions and religious leaders to work together in building a nation which does not believe in divination and witchcraft practices.

Dr Samia also pointed a finger at some irresponsible leaders who use abusive language against others, saying it was against good practices of civilised people.

“This is unacceptable in religion, and actually a well brought up person cannot do such a thing.” President Samia commended the Office of the Zanzibar Mufti for its ongoing public awareness campaign on the proper use of traditional medicines and submitting themselves to God through prayers.

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President Dr Samia also warned political leaders to make good use of political platforms and avoid making hate speeches that threaten the country’s peace and stability.

“As a leader you need to be bold, strong and close to your people,” said President Samia.

Moreover, the Head of State emphasised on the importance of paying taxes, saying it is a key ingredient for stimulating development in any country. She said that tax evasion and cheating are among things that retard any country’s development and that all governments in the world record progress through proper tax collections.

President Samia also used the gathering to remind men to always stand as responsible fathers and husbands to their families.

She said men must love, protect, teach and provide proper upbringing for their children. Earlier, the Minister of State – Office of the President, Constitution, legal Affairs, Public serviceand Good Governance, Mr Haroun Ali Suleiman thanked Dr Samia for accepting the invitation to grace the celebration.

“We are very pleased, this is the second celebration of the Islamic New Year to be attended by the President,” Mr Suleiman said.