DAR ES SALAAM: WE must admit it that any nation’s greatest strength is not measured by the volume of political slogans or the intensity of public confrontation, but by the ability of its people to live together peacefully while pursuing shared prosperity.
For the youth, who represent both the present and the future, this responsibility is even greater. Every action, every word and every decision should contribute to national unity rather than deepen unnecessary divisions. In other words, peace is never accidental. It is built through tolerance, mutual respect, responsible citizenship and a willingness to place the common good above personal or political interests.
Ideas, slogans and schools of thought that encourage hatred, hostility or conflict have no place in a society determined to grow. They weaken trust, discourage investment, interrupt education, divide communities and delay development. No nation has ever achieved sustainable progress while constantly consumed by internal conflict.
Coming home to Tanzania, the recent warning from the Police Force that there should be no demonstrations in the country should remind every citizen that peace and public order remain essential foundations for national stability.
Whatever one’s political views, disagreements should be expressed responsibly, respectfully and within the framework of the law. The desire for change if any, should never become an excuse for actions capable of undermining peaceful coexistence or threatening the safety of fellow citizens.
Here, young people should also resist the temptation to devote excessive time and energy to endless political debates while neglecting opportunities that genuinely transform lives.
Political demonstrations often attract hooligans, thieves and idle individuals who exploit them to loot, vandalise and steal property, undermining public peace.
Ok, politics has its rightful place, but education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, innovation, professional excellence and community service create lasting prosperity. A productive generation builds industries, creates employment, develops technology and strengthens families. Those achievements benefit everyone regardless of political affiliation.
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The call before today’s youth is, therefore, clear. Champion peace in your homes, schools, workplaces and communities. Reject violence, provocative slogans and divisive ideologies. Promote dialogue, instead of confrontation, understanding instead of suspicion and cooperation instead of hostility.
Let your ambition be measured by the businesses you establish, the knowledge you acquire, the communities you uplift and the opportunities you create. A peaceful, tolerant and united nation will always provide the strongest foundation for sustainable development, lasting prosperity and hope for generations to come.