Churches in Daressalam set on fire

Arsons and thefts bother several churches in the Tanzanian metropolis of Dar Es Salaam. Churches of different denominations and cars of church workers were set on fire, musical instruments and other things were stolen from the buildings. The Mbagala parish of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanszania (ELCT-ECD) was one of the affected churches. Bishop Alex Malasusa was deeply shattered when visiting the parish yesterday. It is totally unclear what is behind the arsons and thefts - religious, political or simply criminal motives. The ELCT hopes that no affected religious group will retaliate, no matter what motives come to light. "We stand side by side of our member church", UEM general secretary Dr Fidon Mwombeki said today. "Wir hope for a quick solution of the crimes and pray for peace and tolerance between all religions in Tanzania."