“Mnapotiwa sumu, tumieni akili zenu”: President Samia Urges Tanzanians to Protect Peace, Warns Against Religious and Political Provocation

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged citizens, political leaders and religious figures to protect the country’s peace. She spoke during a meeting with elders in Dar es Salaam on December 2, 2025. Her remarks came as political tension increased and public debate intensified. She said Tanzania’s stability must stay above all disagreements.

President Samia warned against provoking conflict because of personal dislike for a leader. She reminded Tanzanians that democracy has fixed terms. Leaders serve, finish and leave. “Hata kama aliyepo juu ya Serikali haumtaki… tustahimili tu,” she said. She also questioned why anyone would stir division when the government has improved key services. She asked, “Kosa letu ni nini? Kuongeza huduma za afya? Kujenga mashule mazuri? Kukuza uchumi wa Tanzania?” She added that rejecting her because of her faith or origin cannot justify attempts to destabilize the nation.

She also cautioned the public about harmful political narratives. She said some leaders use religion to plant hate. “Mnapotiwa sumu, tumieni akili zenu,” she warned. She explained that religion must never be used to create chaos. She said religious leaders must stay in their lane. “Kwani kuna kitabu cha dini kimesema kitumike kuvuruga nchi?” she asked. She said every faith teaches that authority comes from God, whether the leader is a man or a woman.

President Samia urged religious leaders to focus on their spiritual role. She said their robes should show true values and leadership. She reminded them that Tanzania’s peace is fragile and must be protected. She said unity should guide their actions and messages. She ended by calling on all citizens to take responsibility for maintaining stability and guarding the nation’s long-standing peace.