Julius K Nyerere: Servant of God or Untarnished Tyrant?

In January 2005, the Catholic Church in Tanzania, announced that The Vatican had given 'approval' that, Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the country's post-independent ruler-an autocratic one as it turned out-be called 'Servant of God'.

This 'approval' paved the way for the Catholic Church in Tanzania to commence a formal investigation process, which, if found to be above reproach, would lead to the beatification of Nyerere and ultimately to the official canonisation of this 'Servant of God' thereby declaring Julius Kambarage Nyerere a saint.

However, the author provides evidential material in support of his opposition to the canonisation of Nyerere. Indeed, in a racy, narrative style, he lifts the lid on the hidden supression that existed during Nyerere's reign; suppression that continued while European tourists were enjoying their safari holidays.

The author contends that proclaiming Nyerere a saint would not only make a mockery of the ecclesiastical tradition that has for ages been a preserve for saintly people, but would also be dishonouring the memory of those who suffered and perished under Nyerere's undoubted tyranny.