DAR ES SALAAM: THE Principal Judge of the High Court of Tanzania, Mr Mustapher Siyani, has called for the establishment of an integrated labour justice system to enhance efficiency, transparency and the timely resolution of disputes.
Mr Siyani made this appeal over the weekend in Dar es Salaam during the opening of a meeting organised by the High Court of Tanzania’s Labour Division.
“It is crucial to develop an integrated labour justice system that aligns the judiciary with stakeholders. This will boost efficiency, transparency and streamline processes in resolving labour disputes involving the government, employers and employees,” Mr Siyani said.
The meeting was attended by High Court Judges and various stakeholders.
Mr Siyani emphasised that the labour rights sector must embrace electronic systems in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a vital role.
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He noted that an integrated electronic system would facilitate easier access to information regarding rights and dispute resolution procedures for both employees and employers.
He pointed out that many sectors worldwide have successfully utilised such systems, overcoming barriers like economic constraints, geographic limitations and bureaucratic delays.
“I see these systems as a solution to many challenges we face. An integrated electronic system will simplify complaint filing and case management, reduce conflict resolution times and ensure employees receive their rights promptly,” he stated.
The Principal Judge also highlighted that an integrated system would provide stakeholders with real-time information about ongoing cases, promoting transparency and building trust through open processes.
Additionally, it would enable easier collection and analysis of statistics related to labour disputes, which could help policymakers address systemic issues and improve regulations.
Earlier, Judge Dr Yose Mlyambina, who is in charge of the High Court of Tanzania’s Labour Division, welcomed the Principal Judge and noted that the meeting was convened under rule 7 (2) of Government Announcement number 209 of 2010.
Dr Mlyambina reflected on the success of previous tripartite committee meetings, which have led to agreements on various issues affecting stakeholders.
Chairperson of the Association of Tanzanian Employers, Ms Suzan Ndomba expressed enthusiasm for the integrated system.
“We have long awaited such a system. The judiciary’s advancements in technology will enhance timely justice delivery. Compatible systems will allow stakeholders to submit cases more quickly, which is a positive development,” she said.
Director General of the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration (CMA), Mr Usekelege Mpulla noted that the integrated system aligns with both judicial priorities and the President’s vision for simplified justice delivery.
“All institutional systems should be coordinated for easier citizen access. The CMA is implementing a project on the Dispute Resolution and Registration System, enabling electronic case registration and timely processing,” he explained.
The meeting, themed “The Role of the Judiciary and Stakeholders in Improving the Labour Rights System for the Welfare of the Nation,” covered various topics to reinforce stakeholders’ responsibilities in labour rights.
