Written by Faridah N Kulumba
Africa-Press-Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan on 15 December 2021, while launching a three-day debate on the state of multi-party democracy in the country hinted on a new dawn for opposition political parties which have been complaining about the ban on public rallies, among other matters of concern.
Unity
President Samia expressed her intention to unite the country by bringing everyone on board and went as far as declaring the possibility of allowing political rallies to be held in accordance with existing rules and regulations.
Dialogue
Samia called for a dialogue on how best the rallies could be held without breaking the country’s existing laws. In Tanzania, there is a law for the Registrar of political parties and rules of the police force – all of which provide guidance on holding such rallies. She directed all political parties should discuss how to conduct the rallies without violence and insults or damage to other people’s property.
New Dawn
It is time that Tanzanians put their differences aside, including political differences, and started a new chapter on rebuilding the country, according to the Head of State. Political parties now should focus on directing, educating, and negotiating to save the country from political violence and other catastrophes. President Samia made it clear that she was willing, able, and ready to tolerate criticism, listen to advice, and forgive when she is wronged. And urged party chairpersons to ensure that their parties abide by the law.
According to Dr. Amos Lema, a development expert, President Samia’s statement had cemented another milestone in her leadership by showing readiness to meet with development partners. He believes that the new Tanzanian President will work on the recommendations of the conference to restore the ‘lost’ democracy in the country.
Criticisms
President Samia’s leadership is under scrutiny over her handling of demands led by opposition leaders for a new constitutional reform. 59-year-old Freeman Mbowe the main opposition leader of Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo party (Chadema) has been behind bars since his arrest by Samia’s government on 21 July 2021, as he prepared to address a constitutional forum arranged by his party, and was later charged with terrorism acts. After Bowe’s detention, nine members of his party were also detained by the same government, which the opposition says shows that President Hassan is continuing the oppressive rule of her late predecessor Magufuli.
The continued harassment of the opposition, arbitrary arrest, and trumped-up charges are a reminder of the inadequacies of the current constitution and the need for constitutional reforms.
Will Samia win Tanzanians hearts?
Mr. Stephen Ouma, a political analyst told Africa-Report that the only way President Samia can win Tanzanian hearts is by giving back to them the right of expressing themselves, removing all oppressive laws on the media, and stop cracking down on the press and opposition. Samia inherited a divided nation, but during her first days as the president of Tanzania she created a sense of optimism, not just through her calls for reconciliation and national unity but her candour.
