AS Tanzania prepares for the general election later this year, Islamic religious leaders in various regions have emphasized ethical voting, urging citizens to prioritise national interest, reject corruption and elect competent leaders.

In their messages during Eid al-Fitr prayers yesterday, key preachers also touched on social issues ranging from the importance of cervical cancer vaccinations to concerns over women altering their appearances.

Sheikh Issah Nassoro of Singida stressed ethical leadership in the upcoming elections, urging voters to resist the temptation of bribery and to choose leaders who are committed to the nation's well-being rather than personal gain.

 “Elections are an opportunity to shape the future of our country,” he told the gathered faithful. “It’s crucial to actively participate in the process and focus on the common good, not personal interests.”

He strongly appealed for support of orphans and greater involvement in community service delivery such as health, education and clean water, reminding the public that adherence to government policies is essential for national development.

Singida Regional Commissioner Halima Dendego emphasized the importance of unity and mutual support in the lead-up to the election, urging Tanzanians to remain vigilant in protecting peace, especially during the election period, warning against actions that could destabilize the nation.

Muslims to carry forward the good deeds they practiced during Ramadan, ensuring that kindness and worship remain constant in their lives, she stated, while Imam Lali Abdulazizi of Dodoma’s Bilal Area C Mosque echoed concerns over the approaching election, urging intense prayers for the nation.

 “Peace is essential for the smooth running of the electoral process and for the nation’s economic stability,” he said, meanwhile as in Shinyanga, Sheikh Soud Kategile warned against electing leaders who offer small bribes and hand-outs.

Instead, voters must select leaders who are genuinely committed to addressing the people's needs, he said, criticizing those who misuse fasting for social display. Fasting and charity should remain rooted in religious devotion, he emphasized.

Sheikh Issah Ramadhani Simba of Singida hailed the harmony during Ramadan and called on the faithful to pray for national peace and stability during elections.

Sheikh Abdourahmani Haji Hassani of the Jamaat Answar Sunnah Tanzania (JASUTA) warned against shielding powerful figures involved in bribery while targeting ordinary citizens in anti-corruption exercises.

Sheikh Mustapha Rajabu of Dodoma urged Muslim women to embrace their natural bodies and avoid altering their appearances, advocating for modesty in line with Islamic principles.

Sheikh Omari Damka of Kahama emphasized the importance of the cervical cancer vaccine for girls aged 9 to 14, urging parents to ensure their daughters receive the vaccine to protect their health.

Stressing participation in the general election as vital for national development, he cautioned that neglecting the right to vote is neglect of duty.

A number of residents in Shinyanga shared how they have supported their daughters’ health by ensuring they received the cervical cancer vaccine.

Mariam Shabani, residing at Nyihogo, said she had ensured that her two daughters received the cervical cancer vaccine, and no health complications came up. Some people misunderstand the vaccine, associating it with harmful myths about infertility, she stated, affirming the need for more campaigns among schoolgirls about the importance and benefits of the vaccine.

Hemed Ramadhani of Nyasubi admitted being unaware of the vaccine’s significance but after learning more he decided to send his daughter for the vaccine while in primary school and is now attending secondary school.