THRDC envisions a new constitution in the election campaigns

DAR ES SALAAM: NATIONAL Coordinator of Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), Lawyer Onesmo Olengurumwa, says Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) he is closely monitoring the implementation of political parties’ manifestos, especially regarding the availability of a New Constitution as proposed in the 2024 AZAKI Manifesto.

Speaking to media outlets in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, the National Coordinator of THRDC, Lawyer Onesmo Olengurumwa, stated that CSOs proposed the process of the New Constitution to begin immediately after a party forms the government, to ensure Tanzanians get a Constitution based on democracy, accountability, and good governance.

“Our assessment shows that many parties have adopted the New Constitution as a key agenda in their campaigns. We have seen about five parties, CCM, CHAUMMA, ACT Wazalendo, CUF, and others openly promising the New Constitution,” he said.

ACT Wazalendo has pledged to complete the New Constitution process within one year if it forms the government, while CHAUMMA promises to submit a bill to establish a Special Constitutional Commission within 100 days after being elected. This commission will consider reports from the Nyalali, Kisanga, and Warioba Commissions, recommendations from the 2023/2024 Presidential Task Force, and technological advancements.

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CUF plans to initiate a national dialogue within three months of taking office to improve the Draft Constitution of the Warioba Commission.

CCM, through its manifesto and statements by its Chairperson, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has promised to revive and complete the New Constitution process within the first 100 days if it continues to lead the country.

Olengurumwa said CSOs will continue to monitor the fulfillment of these promises to ensure citizens receive a New Constitution that meets their expectations.