Tabora: The Catholic bishops of Tanzania have issued a strong directive prohibiting priests, religious sisters, brothers, and seminarians from engaging in partisan politics or taking part in campaign activities as the country prepares for its upcoming presidential elections on October 29, 2025.
The announcement came from Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, OFM Cap., President of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) and Bishop of Lindi, during a homily delivered at the Centenary Jubilee celebrations of St. Paul the Apostle Major Seminary in Kipalapala, Archdiocese of Tabora. Bishop Pisa emphasized that the clergy’s mission is spiritual and pastoral, not political, and warned against actions that could compromise the Church’s neutrality.
Bishop Pisa expressed concern over the growing trend of politicians visiting parishes, convents, and religious institutions in attempts to secure support or project endorsements from clergy and religious communities. Calling this practice a “moral wrong,” he condemned the exploitation of individuals who may lack sufficient awareness of the broader political context.
“It is a moral wrong to manipulate individuals who do not fully understand the current political environment,” Bishop Pisa declared. “Dragging novices or religious sisters into political matters they may not even follow especially those who do not listen to the radio or keep up with current affairs is unacceptable. This must stop.”
As election day approaches, Bishop Pisa urged priests, religious, and seminarians to maintain strict neutrality and avoid behaviors that could be perceived as partisan. He specifically cautioned against attending political rallies, wearing party regalia, or being seen in environments that could suggest endorsement of political groups.
“Any priest, religious, or seminarian appearing at campaign events in political party clothing is in serious violation of their non-partisan vocation,” he warned.
Bishop Pisa also issued a direct instruction to seminarians, forbidding them from wearing garments that display political symbols including T-shirts, caps, or other attire even in casual settings such as sports or leisure activities.
Turning to the Catholic laity, Bishop Pisa encouraged all voters to approach the upcoming elections with deep moral reflection. He stressed that political choices should be guided by a well-formed conscience rooted in the principles of truth, justice, and the social teachings of the Church.
“The Church calls on every voter to act responsibly,” he said. “Choices made at the ballot box must reflect the values of justice and the common good, not partisan passions.”
The TEC’s directive comes at a time when religious influence in politics is under growing scrutiny across Africa. While the Catholic Church plays an influential role in Tanzania’s social and moral landscape, the bishops insist that involvement in partisan politics risks eroding the Church’s credibility and spiritual mission.
By urging neutrality, the bishops seek to protect the integrity of the clergy and prevent the faithful from being misled into viewing the Church as an extension of political machinery.