Chief Justice urges inclusive legal reforms
What you need to know:
- Justice Masaju said reforms must serve the public interest and uphold the Constitution, not be driven by external pressure.
Dar es Salaam. Chief Justice George Masaju has called for greater citizen participation in shaping laws and policies to strengthen the rule of law, democracy and national welfare.
Opening the National Dialogue on Legal and Policy Reforms in Dodoma yesterday, Justice Masaju said reforms must serve the public interest and uphold the Constitution, not be driven by external pressure.
“Our doors are open for dialogue. Bring forward proposals for reform, but ensure they reflect the genuine needs of Tanzanians,” he said.
The dialogue was organised by the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) in collaboration with the Tanganyika Law Society, Zanzibar Law Society, East Africa Law Society, Pan African Lawyers Union, Zanzibar Female Lawyers Association, with support from the European Union.
Justice Masaju urged bar associations and citizens to ensure reforms are guided by Tanzania’s history, culture and values, rather than imitating foreign systems without scrutiny.
“We must move step-by-step. Reforms should add value and promote social well-being,” he said.
He also called on professional associations and civil society groups to support national development, stressing that Tanzania belongs to all citizens with a shared vision for a better future.
NaCoNGO chairperson Mwantumu Mahiza said the government had increasingly recognised the role of civil society. “While challenges remain, there has been significant progress compared to the past,” she noted.
THRDC national coordinator, Advocate Ole Ngurumwa, said targeted legal reforms were needed to create a more enabling environment for civil society, expand democratic space and strengthen human rights.
Citing a recent report by Advocate Clarence Kipobota, he said there was a gap between the capacity and needs of CSOs, calling for urgent action.
East Africa Law Society secretary-general, John Seka, and Association of Judges and Magistrates president, Elimo Massawe, jointly called for greater stakeholder collaboration to uphold justice and safeguard rights.
Closing the forum, Law Reform Commission commissioner, Dr Idd Mandi, reaffirmed readiness to receive proposals at any time.
“With the launch of the National Development Vision 2050, we are open to ideas that align legal frameworks with this vision and deliver positive outcomes,” he said.
