Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Dar es Salaam (Agenzia Fides) - "Ban on religious hate speech." This decision was reached by religious leaders, Christians and Muslims, of Tanzania in the aftermath of the attack during the ceremony of inauguration of the parish of St. Joseph of Arusha, causing 3 deaths and sixty wounded (see Fides 6 and 7 May 2013 ).
The decision was reached during an interfaith meeting that was held on 8 and 9 May in Dar es Salaam.
"As religious leaders, we are bestowed with the capacity to maintain peace and security," the statement said. "Religious violence can easily destroy our peace and security."
The statement urges religious leaders to engage in religious debates with respect for other faiths, maintain interfaith relationships and encourages parents to educate youth on the importance of peace.
The police have announced that from now on those who spread religious hate speech, use loud speakers in churches and mosques, text messaging from a mobile phone, Internet, social networks will be arrested. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 10/05/2013)
