By Paschal Norbert
DAR ES SALAAM, NOVEMBER 10, 2025 (CISA)- The Catholic Archbishop of Dar es Salaam, Most Rev. Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi, OFM Cap., has issued a searing condemnation of the widespread violence and killings that engulfed Tanzania during and after the October 29 General Election.
In his homily, during a solemn Memorial Mass for victims of what is being described as the worst post-election bloodshed in the country’s history, the Archbishop lamented that many lives were reportedly lost as hundreds were left injured, and scores still detained as authorities continue rounding up individuals accused of participating and fueling the protests. The unrest, which has sparked national and international outrage, has stained Tanzania’s long-standing reputation as a beacon of stability and peace in Africa, with many blaming President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration for the political rupture and deadly crackdown.
In a deeply emotional homily delivered before grieving families and a visibly shaken congregation, Archbishop Ruwa’ichi grieved the nation’s moral decline, declaring, “Our country has been fractured. We have lost our sense of dignity. What we witnessed during the election week has wounded the soul of Tanzania. This nation has not only lost its respect, but it has lost her people, her very sons and daughters.”
His voice heavy with sorrow, he described the killings as “senseless, cruel, and without cause,” emphasizing that innocent citizens fell victim to a wave of brutality that has left communities broken and traumatized.
Recalling the chilling days when the country was plunged into fear, with internet shut down and opposition leaders arrested, the Archbishop condemned what he termed an orchestrated assault on democratic freedoms.
“People were killed while protesting, yet the punishment for demonstration is not death by the bullet,” he said, explaining further “Others were hunted down and killed in their own homes. This has no justification. None.”
The Capuchin prelate emphasized that the violence does not reflect the true character of Tanzania, urging the government to reclaim the nation’s moral bearings.
“This is not the face of Tanzania,” he insisted, stating “What happened has no explanation. It has no forgiveness. It is an offense against God.”
Warning against hollow rhetoric that speaks of peace while ignoring justice, Archbishop Ruwa’ichi stressed that true peace is unattainable where injustice thrives: “Tanzania, we have lost the sense of justice. Too often, whether knowingly or out of foolishness, we speak of peace but never of justice. Let it be clear: there is no peace without justice. This truth must be rooted in our minds and hearts.”
He challenged citizens and leaders alike to exercise wisdom grounded in moral clarity and responsibility.
“Justice is the foundation of peace,” he repeated firmly. “I say again, justice is the true foundation of peace. And wisdom, wisdom is a virtue of God. A sincere human being must strive to be wise. As Tanzanians, we must ask ourselves honestly: do we have wisdom?”
Reflecting on the Gospel reading, Archbishop Ruwa’ichi warned against harming or obstructing the vulnerable and powerless.
“Jesus teaches us about hindrances. Whoever causes the innocent to stumble, it would be better for a millstone to be tied around their neck and they be cast into the sea. Those who rejoice in injustice commit an offense before God,” he cautioned.
The archbishop invited the faithful to turn their grief into a plea for transformation and healing: “Today we honour our brothers, sisters, families, and fellow citizens whose lives were taken in the election violence. Let us ask God for mercy. Let us pray for wisdom. Let us stand ready to do justice.”
