Retired CJ Samatta launches his book on Good Governance

Dar es Salaam. Retired Chief Justice Barnabas Samatta has launched a new book entitled Utawala Bora (Good Governance), which talks about critical issues such as the eradication of corruption and the need for constitutional reforms that align with contemporary values.

In this latest book, he discusses important aspects of the constitution and the rule of law, emphasising how sound leadership and the rule of law cement the consensus of the people regarding the nature and character of their state and system of government.

Armed with more than 41 years of service, Samatta started his public career as a state attorney. He rose to become the director of public prosecutions. He was later appointed as a judge in the Tanzanian High Court and rose to the position of Chief Justice. He retired in July 2007.

The launch of Samatta’s book was graced by Chief Justice Ibrahim Juma. Speaking during the launch, Samatta said that he believed that the doors to justice should be opened to all, regardless of their social status or economic position.

“The only way to ensure good governance is for government leaders to involve their citizens in all matters relating to the country,” he stressed.

He further stressed the importance of ethics, integrity, and professionalism and the need for justice and peace in a country governed by good laws.

“Let everyone in our society give justice a chance to prevail. The vulnerability of our planet has reached such a depressing degree that there is no greater service judges can render to mankind than playing their role in the protection of the environment,” he said.

Explaining further, he said the decision to write the book was to sensitise the people to know and understand the importance of good governance and involve them in matters of importance to the country in order to be abreast of what the government does.

The book also delved into condemning corruption. He said he hoped that when government leaders read his book, they would understand the importance of being accountable by ensuring good governance and corruption are firmly dealt with.

He further said that democracy is all about good governance supported by a constitution that caters to the needs of the country. “I hope that when the government leaders read my book, they will embrace what I have recommended to bring about good governance,” he stressed.

On the constitution, he said the book has more than 22 recommendations, including putting God first in its preparation.

“The existing constitution designates Tanzania as a socialist nation. Consequently, any political party failing to align with this ideology will be ineligible for operation within the country,” he said.

He added that in a democratic country, political tolerance should be encouraged despite divergent views, and that it is imperative that all parties have support for the new constitution.

Meanwhile, while officiating the launch, Judge Juma said that while the book has important issues that will educate the public, there is a need for Tanzanians to cultivate a culture of reading.