Dr Samia  instructs TPBA to observe patriotism in  safeguarding Tanzania’s sovereignty

DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed the Tanzania Public Bar Association (TPBA) to remain vigilant against external interests that could undermine Tanzania’s sovereignty, urging them to use their legal expertise to protect the country’s independence, natural resources and constitutional order.

Speaking when opening the Annual General Meeting of the Tanzania Public Bar Association (TPBA) at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC), the Head of State said the changing global landscape requires government lawyers to closely monitor international legal developments and provide timely advice that safeguards national interests.

“There are various forces across the world seeking to advance their interests through other countries. As government lawyers, you must quickly analyse international declarations, protocols and legal developments, interpret them in the context of Tanzania and provide prompt legal guidance to protect our sovereignty,” President Samia said.

She said government lawyers are among the country’s foremost defenders, entrusted with ensuring that laws, policies and international commitments do not compromise Tanzania’s independence, citizens’ rights or national resources.

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Additionally, she urged them to identify legal and policy risks before they escalate, stressing that sound legal advice can prevent costly mistakes and strengthen government decision-making.

She further called on members of the association to uphold patriotism, professionalism and integrity, saying the legal profession should serve as a pillar of peace, national unity and social cohesion rather than a source of conflict and division.

President Samia described the government lawyer’s pen as one of the state’s most powerful tools, noting that while presidential assent comes at the final stage of the legislative process, legal advice provided by government lawyers has the power to avert losses before decisions are made.

“A government lawyer’s pen can prevent losses before they occur. It should always be used with honesty, professionalism and in the best interest of the nation,” she said.

The Head of State reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of government lawyers through continuous professional training and improved working conditions to enable them to discharge their responsibilities more effectively.