AG: Fast track Kiswahili laws translations
DAR ES SALAAM: ATTORNEY General Hamza Johari has urged the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Draftsman to fast-track the translation of all national laws into Kiswahili, especially election-related laws and regulations, to ensure public access before this year’s general election.
Mr Johari issued the directive during his visit to the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Draftsman (OCPD) pavilion at the recently concluded 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF). During the visit, he also inquired about the issues and concerns raised by citizens at the pavilion to enable his office to take appropriate action.
“I believe we must continue strengthening our efforts in translating laws, especially election laws and their regulations. Doing so will significantly improve access to justice for our citizens,” said the Attorney General.
He commended the OCPD for its public awareness efforts at the exhibition and for the vital legal work it continues to undertake in fulfilling its statutory responsibilities.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr Damas Ndumbaro, emphasised the crucial role of the OCPD in the legislative process, stating that no law can be enacted in Parliament without the involvement of this key institution.
Dr Ndumbaro highlighted the office’s importance in drafting, revising and translating both principal and subsidiary legislation.
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“The Office of the OCPD is central to the entire process of drafting, amending and interpreting laws in the country. Without this office, no bill would be tabled in Parliament. It is also responsible for drafting amendments and subsidiary legislation. In essence, it is the legal engine room of the nation,” he said.
He further explained that the judiciary relies heavily on the OCPD to ensure accurate and up-to-date legal references.
“If this office ceased to function, courts would struggle to interpret and apply laws,” he noted, highlighting the OCPD’s role in verifying legal texts and identifying outdated statutes.
He also praised its efforts to translate laws into Kiswahili for greater public accessibility.
Earlier, OCPD Legal Officer Ms Mariam Possi briefed visitors on key legal topics, including the lawmaking process, legal amendments and the role of translation in promoting justice.
She reaffirmed the office’s commitment to legal drafting, revision and translation in line with existing regulations.
