Tanzania unveils roadmap for criminal justice reform

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed Tanzanian government officials to implement a comprehensive strategy for reforming the nation's criminal justice system.

The plan, outlined by a committee of experts, aims to strengthen justice delivery and ensure fairness, efficiency and respect for human rights.

On January 31, 2023, President Hassan inaugurated a commission to examine and improve the nation’s criminal justice institutions, focusing on fairness, efficiency, and human rights.

The commission was tasked with probing institutions like the National Prosecution Services (NPS), the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), the Prisons, and the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA).

After receiving the commission's report in July 2023, the President established a committee of experts to guide the implementation of the recommendations. The committee, led by former Chief Justice Mohammed Chande Othman and former Chief Secretary Ambassador Ombeni Sefue, began its work on October 9, 2023.

It analysed the 333 recommendations, categorising them into short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures.

At the State House in Dar es Salaam on June 15, 2024, during the reception of the committee's report, President Hassan emphasised the importance of strengthening the justice system and expressed satisfaction with the committee's progress.

She chose to form a committee of experts to strategise the implementation process, acknowledging the task's complexity and importance.

“We have done all this, but we don’t have a criminal justice policy, so this is also our priority within that law,” she stated, highlighting the need for a comprehensive national criminal justice policy.

Ambassador Sefue, the deputy chairperson, noted significant progress, particularly within the judiciary. Among the achievements was the expansion of the national prosecution office, now serving 50 out of 96 districts.

The President stressed the importance of extending services to the remaining 46 districts, underscoring the government's commitment to equitable justice.

Another key recommendation was the integration of ICT systems within criminal justice institutions to enhance efficiency and transparency.

The President set a December deadline for all government institutions to be integrated through unified ICT systems.

Addressing the misuse of power by some regional and district heads, the President commended the Chief Secretary's Circular No. 1 of 2023, which instructed leaders to adhere strictly to the law when exercising arrest powers.

“Despite the directive issued last year, there are still regional and district heads continuing with arrogance in their areas… Therefore, the Circular should be adhered to and implemented properly,” she directed, advocating for accountability and adherence to legal boundaries.

The President shared her personal commitment to the cause, reflecting on her dedication to bringing positive reforms to the justice system.

“My comfort is that the issues that have been bothering me are now taking on a new form of change in the delivery of justice in our country,” she said, expressing optimism for the future.

Her vision for a reformed justice system involves not only structural changes but also a fundamental shift in mindset and perspective. She stressed the need for engagement and understanding of the recommendations to transform and rebuild the system based on good governance principles.

“Change is necessary,” she reiterated, urging those involved to embrace the transformation wholeheartedly.

Chief Justice Ibrahim Juma echoed the President’s sentiments, acknowledging the historical significance of the reforms.

“The efforts I see from your will might go very far. I urge all of us in justice institutions, this is a time we should not miss; the next strategy will come in another generation,” he remarked, emphasizing the unique opportunity presented by these reforms.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Tulia Ackson, assured the Parliament's readiness to enact necessary legal amendments to support the reforms.

“We are ready to make these amendments and will be waiting for them,” she affirmed, highlighting the legislative body's commitment to facilitating justice and societal prosperity.

The implementation of the commission’s recommendations is poised to revolutionize Tanzania’s criminal justice system, addressing long-standing issues such as misuse of power, inefficiency, and lack of transparency.

The reforms promise to create a more equitable and effective justice system, safeguarding citizens' rights and ensuring justice for all.

As President Hassan continues to champion these changes, Tanzania stands on the brink of a new era in criminal justice, marked by accountability, modernity, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.