The Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG) has urged Tanzanians to avoid taking the law into their own hands, warning that acts of mob justice and other forms of self-administered punishment continue to fuel human rights violations across the country.
Speaking to journalists at the commission's pavilion during the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba) on Wednesday, CHRAGG's Director of Legal Services said citizens should use legal channels to seek justice instead of resorting to unlawful actions that infringe on the rights of others.
She said individuals with grievances should report their cases to the relevant authorities, stressing that adherence to legal procedures is essential for protecting human rights and maintaining the rule of law.
"People should submit their complaints through the proper legal processes rather than taking matters into their own hands, as doing so can lead to serious consequences and violations of other people's rights," she said.
The director said CHRAGG continues to offer a wide range of services, including receiving and investigating complaints related to human rights abuses and violations of good governance principles.
She said members of the public visiting the commission's offices are assisted in lodging complaints, resolving disputes involving human rights, accessing legal guidance and receiving education on their rights and responsibilities.
However, she noted that not every complaint received by the commission amounts to a human rights or governance violation. Some cases, she explained, arise from limited public understanding of the law and the proper procedures for seeking justice.
"In such cases, we guide citizens to the appropriate institutions so they can obtain the services they need and pursue justice through the correct channels," she said.
She attributed many human rights violations to inadequate legal knowledge, limited awareness of constitutional rights and responsibilities, as well as broader social, political and economic challenges.
According to the director, the commission's ongoing public awareness campaigns have encouraged more Tanzanians to report cases involving alleged human rights abuses and failures in good governance.
She said CHRAGG continues to work with the government, public institutions, civil society organisations and the public to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights in the country.
The director also reminded citizens that rights are inseparable from responsibilities, urging both leaders and the public to observe the law, comply with established procedures and uphold good governance principles.
"When both leaders and citizens fulfil their responsibilities, cases of human rights violations and poor governance can be significantly reduced," she said.
She emphasised that no one is above the law, noting that the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania upholds the rule of law and requires both public officials and ordinary citizens to respect the law and good governance principles.
