The Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) has issued a directive prohibiting Catholic priests, religious sisters, Brothers, and seminarians from participating in partisan politics or campaigns. The directive also discourages clergy and seminarians from wearing political party campaign regalia.
Sarah Peladi – Dar es Salaam.
The announcement was made by TEC President Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, OFM Cap., during a homily at the Centenary Jubilee celebrations of St. Paul the Apostle Major Seminary in Kipalapala, located in the Archdiocese of Tabora. Bishop Pisa is the Ordinary of the Catholic Diocese of Lindi.
Church condemns political manipulation
With Tanzania scheduled to hold presidential elections on 29 October this year, Bishop Pisa condemned the increasing trend of politicians visiting parishes, convents, and religious institutions to seek support or to garner the appearance of endorsement from members of the Catholic clergy and religious communities.
“It is a moral wrong to manipulate individuals who do not fully understand the current political context,” Bishop Pisa emphasised. “Dragging novices or religious sisters, for example, into political issues they do not fully comprehend — especially those religious who do not even listen to the radio or follow current affairs — is completely unacceptable. This must stop,” said the Tanzanian prelate.
Clergy need to uphold ecclesiastical neutrality
As the nation approaches the presidential election, Bishop Pisa urged church leaders across the country to remain fully aware of their spiritual responsibilities, particularly in a highly charged political climate.
“Priests, religious, and seminarians must refrain from participating in political campaigns or wearing any political party clothing. Any of you appearing at political events (in political party regalia) are in serious violation of your non-partisan role,” he stated.
Bishop Pisa issued a specific appeal to seminarians, forbidding them from wearing clothing bearing political symbols, including T-shirts, caps, or any other garments—even in non-political settings such as sports or leisure.
Addressing the wider Catholic community, Bishop Pisa encouraged voters to engage in serious moral reflection before making their electoral choices. He emphasised that political decisions should be guided by a well-formed conscience rooted in truth, justice, and the social teachings of the Church.
