Justice Werema: A legacy of integrity and service
What you need to know:
- One of Justice Werema’s most notable contributions was his involvement in advocating for equitable justice on the international stage.
Dodoma. As Tanzanians mourn the passing of retired Attorney General Frederick Werema, family members and other renowned individuals have described the legacy of the late justice.
Werema died on December 30, 2024, at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) after a brief illness.
At 69, Justice Werema leaves behind a legacy of legal brilliance, steadfast integrity and public service.
One of Justice Werema’s most notable contributions was his involvement in advocating for equitable justice on the international stage.
In 2013, he wrote to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, proposing that the trial of Kenya’s then deputy president, William Ruto, be held in Arusha, Tanzania, rather than The Hague.
The trial stemmed from allegations of Ruto’s involvement in the 2007-2008 post-election violence in Kenya.
Justice Werema’s recommendation was aimed at enabling Ruto to fulfil his constitutional duties while attending court proceedings.
Similar requests were made by other East African countries, including Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and Eritrea.
However, ultimately, the ICC dismissed the case due to insufficient evidence, marking a significant moment in the court’s history.
As Attorney General, Justice Werema was vocal about the importance of adhering to legal counsel.
In Parliament, he decried the disregard of his legal advice by some government ministers, a factor he cited as a cause of administrative challenges, including controversies unearthed by the 2014 Operation Tokomeza Ujangili report.
“Even I can be held accountable if I violate the law. Why then should ministers ignore legal advice?” He once remarked.
His dedication to the rule of law was unwavering, and he urged collaboration on human rights issues to ensure justice and equity for all citizens.
His principled stance contributed to the resignation of four ministers implicated in the mishandling of the anti-poaching operation.
In 2014, Justice Werema resigned as Attorney General following the Tegeta Escrow scandal, which involved the transfer of Sh306 billion.
Despite maintaining that his advice on the matter was legally sound, he stepped down to safeguard the government’s integrity.
His resignation letter to then-President Jakaya Kikwete highlighted his commitment to accountability.
“The Escrow scandal saddened me deeply,” he later reflected. “Ministers I advised turned against me, leaving me no choice but to resign to preserve my honour.”
Justice Werema’s impact extended beyond administrative roles to systemic reforms in the judiciary.
He advocated for the dismissal of baseless cases to alleviate court congestion.
Recalling a pivotal moment in 1996, he released 50 detainees in a single day after identifying insufficient evidence against them.
He also championed amendments to the bail law, proposing broader judicial discretion to balance justice and equity.
His critique of capital punishment emphasised its failure to offer offenders a chance at rehabilitation.
Justice Werema’s family remembers him as a pillar of strength and guidance.
His younger brother, Japhet Werema, spoke of his selflessness and leadership within the family.
“He carried his own burdens and those of others,” he said. “He was a father figure, a problem-solver, and an unwavering source of support.”
Justice Werema leaves behind his wife, three children, and three grandchildren.
His funeral will take place in Butiama, Mara Region, following memorial services in Dar es Salaam and Mwanza.
Former Prime Minister and Attorney General Joseph Warioba praised Justice Werema as a paragon of professionalism and transparency.
“Despite the Escrow controversy, no one can question his integrity,” Mr Warioba said. “He was a beacon of truth and dedication. His contributions to anti-corruption efforts and legal reforms will resonate for generations.”
Mr Warioba recounted their close collaboration on anti-corruption initiatives, including drafting a foundational paper for the Global Coalition Africa.
“He delivered excellence and clarity,” Mr Warioba said, adding, “His work became the basis for global strategies on combating corruption.”
Justice Werema’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and service.
His principled leadership in Tanzania’s legal landscape and his contributions to international justice leave an indelible mark.
