Council of Imams of Tanzania Calls for Truth-Based National Reconciliation Following October Elections

Dar es Salaam – The Council of Imams of Tanzania has released its official position on national reconciliation efforts following the General Election held on October 29, 2025, stressing that unity-building initiatives must be founded on truth, integrity, and accountability from all electoral authorities.

During a press briefing on November 15, 2025 in Dar es Salaam, the Council’s Secretary-General, Sheikh Issa Ponda, revealed that the institution had conducted a comprehensive review of the election’s execution and developed recommendations designed to achieve reconciliation that will restore national stability and social cohesion.

In his opening statement, Sheikh Ponda highlighted the Council of Imams’ longstanding role in Tanzanian society, emphasizing the institution’s history of promoting social and political ethics, monitoring electoral processes, and providing guidance in matters of national importance.

He explained that releasing this position statement represents the Council’s fulfillment of its social and religious duty to protect rights, preserve peace, and uphold human dignity.

Sheikh Ponda disclosed that their assessment uncovered clear and substantial irregularities throughout the electoral process—spanning from voter registration through the voting period to the final announcement of results.

These challenges, he noted, highlight the critical necessity for comprehensive reforms within Tanzania’s electoral system and increased accountability among state institutions responsible for conducting elections.