The Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, has reassured prisoners across the country of access to legal assistance through a team of lawyers from the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS).
The team will work to address appeal challenges and other legal grievances raised by prisoners.
Dr. Ndumbaro made the announcement during the Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign in Kilombero District, where he engaged with prisoners at Kiberege Prison.
He stated that the government has partnered with TLS to address various issues facing prisoners and urged them to be patient as lawyers will visit, prepare appeals, and submit them to the courts.
He added that President Samia has directed that every prisoner should receive justice and that those who have been wronged will have their rights upheld.
Addressing concerns from prisoners who wished to be transferred to facilities closer to their homes, Dr. Ndumbaro emphasized that imprisonment is a penalty, and prisoners do not have the privilege of choosing their detention facilities.
He reminded them of the saying, "A prisoner does not choose a prison," and encouraged acceptance of their current locations, noting that Tanzania is one nation and its citizens have the right to live anywhere.
The minister clarified that presidential pardons are granted based on good behavior exhibited during incarceration. He warned Tanzanians to avoid committing serious offenses such as treason, murder, sexual assault, rape, and economic sabotage, as these crimes are non-bailable and carry severe penalties.
He also encouraged prisoners to pray for President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose efforts have made the legal aid campaign possible, ensuring justice for those behind bars.
Responding to complaints from detainees about delayed court appearances, Dr. Ndumbaro directed officials to expedite the installation of virtual hearing facilities in prisons.
He explained that the judiciary has embraced digital systems, which will allow prisoners and their lawyers to attend court hearings remotely, eliminating the need for transportation and saving time and resources.
Prisoners at Kiberege Prison had earlier expressed frustration over the lack of legal support, which hampers their ability to file appeals and seek justice.
They also requested an increase in the number of beneficiaries under presidential pardon programs, noting that only a small number of prisoners currently benefit.
Detainees also raised concerns about prolonged case durations caused by delays in being taken to court and alleged incidents of excessive force by law enforcement officers during arrests, claiming they were coerced into admitting to crimes they did not commit.
Dr. Ndumbaro urged the general public to take advantage of the ongoing Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign to enhance their understanding of legal matters.
The campaign, launched yesterday in Morogoro Region, will run for nine days across all district councils in the region, providing legal education and addressing legal challenges to ensure justice for vulnerable populations, including prisoners and detainees.
This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to upholding human rights and fostering equal access to justice for all.