What You Need to Know
The Tanzanian government is implementing significant reforms in its criminal justice system, including a National Criminal Justice Policy and a unified digital platform. These changes aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and professionalism in legal processes, addressing issues such as delays and abuse of power within the system.
Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE Tanzanian government is rolling out sweeping reforms in the criminal justice system, including drafting a National Criminal Justice Policy and introducing a unified digital platform to improve efficiency and transparency across institutions.
The Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr Juma Homera made the statement when presenting the 2026/2027 budget in Parliament in Dodoma on Friday saying the reforms are part of the implementation of recommendations from a commission tasked with improving criminal justice institutions.
He said the changes focus on strengthening legal, structural and institutional frameworks to ensure justice is delivered professionally, efficiently and on time.
Elaborating, he said between July 2025 and March 2026, the ministry prepared a draft National Criminal Justice Policy and its implementation strategy, expected to provide overall guidance in handling criminal justice matters while advancing good governance and aligning with national and international development goals.
He added that the ministry has also established a new division for the protection of whistleblowers and witnesses to enhance safety, confidence and timely access to evidence, while work is underway to develop a Criminal Justice Single Window System to integrate ICT platforms across institutions. During the same period, 69 complaints related to delays in criminal cases, denial of bail and abuse of power were received and are being processed.
Tanzania’s criminal justice system has faced challenges, including delays in case processing and issues with transparency. In response, the government has initiated reforms to modernize the system, drawing on recommendations from a dedicated commission. The introduction of a digital platform is expected to streamline operations and improve public trust in legal institutions. These reforms align with broader national and international goals for good governance and justice delivery, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the rule of law in Tanzania.
