Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Condemns Post-Election Violence, Announces Week of Prayers

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) has condemned the post-election violence that has left a trail of death and destruction across the country. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of deadly anti-election protests, the church has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and the damage inflicted on communities. The ELCT, which has over 6 million members, has called for unity and healing amid the turmoil.

Sunday services in the Moshi Lutheran Cathedral drew several hundred congregants, reflecting the church’s commitment to addressing the crisis. Rev. Dr. Alex Gehaz Malasusa, presiding bishop of the ELCT, expressed distress over the violence, which he said undermined the dignity and value of human life. “There were riots that caused loss of life, injuries and the destruction of public and private property,” he stated in a November 12 statement. “There is no sufficient reason to explain the loss of life and destruction of property.”

Malasusa extended the church’s condolences to the families of the deceased and called for prayers for those missing and for the restoration of property. The ELCT has joined other religious leaders, including Roman Catholic bishops, in condemning the violence and the government’s response. The protests, which began in Dar es Salam on October 29, spread rapidly across the country, fueled by concerns over election irregularities, extrajudicial killings, and police harassment.

The demonstrations, led by Gen-Z activists, were reportedly inspired by global youth movements opposing authoritarian rule. However, nearly two weeks after the violence, the government has not released an official death toll, while human rights groups estimate thousands were killed. Church leaders report that many victims were shot in the head or chest, or were chased and killed at home. Catholic Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Ruwa’ichi warned that “the punishment for demonstrations is not death through the bullet,” during a memorial mass for victims on November 10.

Malasusa also expressed regret that some families have yet to recover the bodies of their loved ones for burial, a practice essential to their cultural and religious traditions. “This situation has left various families in a deep state of grief and indescribable sorrow,” he said, highlighting the emotional and spiritual toll of the violence.

In response to the crisis, the ELCT has launched a week of national prayer from November 16 to 23, calling for peace and reconciliation. The initiative reflects the church’s role in advocating for justice and healing in times of conflict. As the nation seeks to move forward, the ELCT remains a voice for the vulnerable, urging compassion and accountability in the face of tragedy.

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