Govt stands firm on judicial independence

TANZANIA: TANZANIA has called on its international partners to respect the independence of the judiciary and the country’s legal processes following the conviction of Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo National Chairman Tundu Lissu.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, the government said the matter was determined by a competent court in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The statement follows remarks by the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa and International Development, Ms Kirsty McNeill, regarding Mr Lissu’s conviction.

The Ministry said the proceedings involved due process, including the right to legal representation and a fair hearing.

It added that Mr Lissu’s right of appeal was also explained to him. The Ministry further clarifies that, the independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s constitutional order, and the government therefore calls upon all partners to respect the independence of the judiciary and the legal processes of the United Republic Tanzania.

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The statement further noted that judicial independence was a cornerstone of Tanzania’s constitutional order and called on partners to respect the country’s judicial independence and legal processes.

It further stated that the government remained committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law.

The ministry described Tanzania and the United Kingdom as long-standing partners with warm and cordial relations built on mutual respect, development cooperation, trade, investment, education and people-to-people ties.

It said the government valued the partnership and considered constructive dialogue and diplomatic engagement, based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs, important in addressing matters of mutual concern.