Restrictions on freedom of religion or belief

Tanzania is a secular state with administrative laws governing relations between religion groups. While freedom of religion or belief is guaranteed by Article 19 of the current constitution, strict application of public order rules prevents the profession of religion in a manner that stirs hostility between faiths. Public preaching by religious communities is strictly monitored, and overt criticism of either faith can result in criminal penalties. However, the Christian community complains of the uneven application of public order laws. Article 31.1 in a draft new constitution upholds freedom of expression, faith and free will in matters of religion, including the right to change religion or remain secular, but also stresses the importance of avoiding defamation and offence.

Societal discrimination based on religious affiliation is increasingly being reported from predominantly Muslim areas of mainland Tanzania and the semi-autonomous Zanzibar archipelago, which is 98% Muslim. Uamsho („Awakening‟), a separatist religious movement founded in 2001, has benefited from local dissatisfaction with the terms of political union, and campaigned for Zanzibari independence during the last elections. This elicited a still unfulfilled promise from President Kikwete of a change in the constitution and the introduction of measures in keeping with shari‟a law. The group and its supporters are alleged to be behind an increase in violence targeting local Christians.

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