Africa-Press – Tanzania. PRIME Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has directed leaders of all cities and councils across the country to ensure that traders are not deprived of their goods, but instead are guided on how to follow the procedures set by relevant authorities.
Speaking at the Machinga market in Dodoma, Dr. Mwigulu emphasized that confiscating traders’ goods is unacceptable and has no legal basis.
“Do not take citizens’ goods; those are their offices. Even if there is something they need guidance on regarding procedures, handle that without blocking their capital. Do not tamper with people’s capital,” said the Prime Minister.
The directive followed complaints from Richard Joseph, a trader at the market, who claimed that city workers had taken his goods. Responding to the complaint, the Prime Minister instructed the Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule, and the Dodoma District Commissioner, Jabir Shekimweri, to investigate the matter and ensure the trader’s goods are returned.
“If they have lost them, they should be dealt with like any other thieves. President Samia Suluhu Hassan does not tolerate oppression; he is a person of justice,” he added.
During a surprise visit, Dr. Mwigulu also ordered that traders should not be removed from their stalls. He stated that if there is still a high demand for trading spaces, regional leaders must look for new areas and construct markets to accommodate the traders’ needs.
Traders at the market thanked the Prime Minister for his surprise visit and for listening to their grievances, requesting that he continue this approach in other parts of the country.
In another statement, Dr. Mwigulu urged Tanzanians to maintain peace and unity to achieve the country’s national development goals.
“Tanzanians, let us reject division,” he emphasized.
