Bishop Dr Benson Bagonza, head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania’s Karagwe Diocese, delivered a critical analysis of Tanzania’s political and religious leadership at the Tanzania Democracy Forum.

He highlighted systemic barriers preventing young people from participating in political and economic life, noting that many lack financial means to meet candidacy requirements.

Bagonza argued that youth exclusion has led to them being used as tools by political parties, with institutions like family, religion, and education failing to foster civic formation.

He criticized the educational system for prioritizing obedience over critical thinking and called for reforms to encourage questioning and active participation.The forum, organized by multiple civil society groups, aimed to address youth exclusion through intergenerational dialogue.Bagonza urged young people to engage in movements rather than parties, emphasizing the need for accountability and democratic values.His speech underscored the urgency of addressing generational divides to prevent further marginalization of youth.