Africa-Press – Tanzania. CHIEF Justice George Masaju has issued a stern warning against the growing trend of lawyers behaving like activists to the extent of violating courtroom ethics, reminding legal practitioners to honour the professional oath that obliges them to maintain integrity and respect for the court.
Speaking during the 73rd admission and enrolment of 774 new advocates in Dodoma yesterday, Justice Masaju expressed deep concern over rising indiscipline among members of the legal fraternity, including open disrespect for courts and judges and judicial officers.
“There is an alarming trend where some advocates praise the court only when they win a case, but when they lose, they claim the court is not independent. You cannot blackmail the court to win cases, we will not entertain that,” he warned.
Justice Masaju said integrity must be reflected in how advocates conduct themselves both inside and outside the courtroom.
He cited increasing incidents of misconduct, including advocates engaging in physical altercations inside courtrooms.
“It has reached a point where advocates fight inside the court while the judge is present. I will have a very low opinion of any judge or magistrate who tolerates such behaviour. We cannot have double standards in maintaining courtroom discipline,” he stressed. He further urged the new advocates to be vigilant in defending national interest, public interest and the interest of justice and to avoid becoming sources of chaos or threats to peace.
Highlighting competence as a cornerstone of national development, the CJ underscored the need for high standards, noting that poor competence has previously cost the nation, especially in international agreements.
“Observe competence. As a nation, we have suffered at times due to poor competence. With strong skills, we can negotiate better international contracts and strengthen our economic standing globally,” he said.
He assured the new entrants that the job market remains wide, particularly as the government continues to reinforce good governance and justice pillars.
He revealed that the government is preparing a new Bail Act, which will outline clear and comprehensive procedures for granting or denying bail.
Once enacted, all non-bailable offences must be heard within six months; otherwise, the accused will be entitled to bail. He said the move may lead to additional responsibilities for primary courts, creating more employment opportunities for young advocates.
The CJ encouraged lawyers to spread across the country instead of concentrating in major cities. “Do not all run to Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and other big cities. There are many opportunities in upcountry regions,” he said.
With the admission of the 774 new advocates, the number of practising lawyers in the country now stands at 14,220. Of the new group, 439 are male and 335 female. A total of 338 were excused from attending the Law School of Tanzania, three passed through the Bar Exam route, while 383 completed the Law School programme.
Deputy Attorney General, Mr Samwel Maneno, representing the Attorney General, urged the new advocates to play an active role in addressing the country’s legal challenges.
“Lawyers are key players in safeguarding peace, upholding the rule of law and supporting national development. There is no room for decisions that violate human rights or misuse the law,” he said.
He reminded them that as officers of the court, they must assist the judiciary by offering accurate legal interpretations that ensure justice is served to wananchi, not only during court proceedings but also in the execution of judgments.
