INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DEMOCRACY: Tanzania’s perspective

IN 2007, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution which required countries around the world to mark the International Day of Democracy on September 15, every year.

This day, is observed with the aim of strengthening and consolidating democracy in every country through acceptable systems.

Therefore, on this day, as a country we are supposed to focus on what faces our democracy.

As we celebrate this day, I would like to express my gratitude to all Tanzanians for continuing to uphold peace and harmony in the country.

I also second the UN Secretary General’s message he delivered to the world today, I quote, “Now is the time to reaffirm that democracy, development and human rights are interdependent and mutually reinforcing.

“Now is the time to stand up for the democratic principles of equality, inclusion, and solidarity.”

Although this year, the UN has focused on the importance of media freedom to democracy, and since there is no a single model of democracy in the world, on our side we are focusing on an issue which has been highly demanded by politicians and political parties in the country.

Political parties have been demanding to be allowed to continue   carrying out political activities, especially holding political rallies with their party members.

The government takes this opportunity to explain that the Task Force formed to coordinate stakeholders’ views on multi-party democracy has continued to emphasise on allowing political gatherings but it has expressed concerns on laws and regulations governing the matter.

Democracy is a process that is concerned with the manner in which things are conducted in accordance with people’s expectations politically, economically and socially, basing on traditions and customs of the respective country, along with people’s involvement.

Tanzania is in various stages to broaden the scope of people’s participation by considering our environment, while being guided by reconciliation spirit towards building equality, solidarity and unity.

Therefore, on this background, I advise that we should wait for views and recommendations of the Task Force on amendment of laws and regulations and that the statement over the matter will be issued in the near future.

Kazi Iendelee!