TLS recommits to protecting rights and promoting justice

Arusha. The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) has pledged to return to its core mission of supporting the nation and addressing public legal matters as it celebrates its 70th anniversary.

Speaking during the anniversary conference, TLS President Boniface Mwabukusi underscored the importance of reflection on the society’s journey, contributions, and impact on Tanzania.

He highlighted the need for the TLS to recommit itself to its constitutional role of advocating for justice and offering legal counsel to the government and the public.

“Essentially, we are trying to return to the original mission of TLS, which is to help the nation and assist the public, especially by utilising Section 4(i) of our constitution. This includes standing up for the people legally and advising the government on ways that will move our nation toward greater prosperity,” Mr Mwabukusi said.

He recounted TLS’s historical contributions, including its involvement in key legal cases during the era of Tanzania’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, and its support for the nation’s transition to a multi-party political system.

However, he acknowledged the challenges the society has faced, including calls for its dissolution due to its strong stance on constitutional and governance reforms. Despite these setbacks, Mr Mwabukusi stressed TLS’s commitment to pushing for progress.

“Our proposals for constitutional reforms have not yet been successful, but we see our responsibility to continue advocating for these changes,” he said.

TLS has set its sights on addressing pressing public concerns, such as the issue of mysterious disappearances.

Mr Mwabukusi called for greater transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies to allay public fears and create a safer environment for both citizens and investors.

“There is a significant issue of people disappearing under mysterious circumstances. We want law enforcement agencies to provide information and close the loopholes that criminals exploit. This creates anxiety among the public and deters investors from viewing Tanzania as a safe place for investment,” he emphasized.

The society also plans to engage the public on critical issues such as election fairness, civil rights, and governance through public lectures, social media, and other platforms.

He reiterated TLS’s intention to work with the government on constitutional reforms, focusing on issues such as civil rights, the judiciary’s independence, and the electoral system.

He advocated for targeted amendments to the existing constitution rather than starting the drafting process anew.

“The constitution must address how to protect our natural resources—forests, oceans, game reserves, and minerals. We cannot have a constitution that remains silent on these critical issues,” Mr Mwabukusi said.

TLS aims to foster a culture of dialogue and collaboration in addressing societal challenges. Mwabukusi criticized the lack of fairness in local government elections, calling on the government to respect democratic principles and ensure citizens’ rights are upheld.

TLS member Ananilea Nkya lauded the conference’s focus, stating that implementing its resolutions would yield significant progress for the nation.

“If these decisions are put into practice, citizens and the nation will surely benefit, creating a safer environment for investment and economic prosperity for present and future generations,” Dr Nkya said.

As TLS reflects on its 70 years of service, it is poised to reclaim its pivotal role in shaping Tanzania’s legal and societal landscape, ensuring justice and progress for all.