Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi has said the government is not expected to agree with human rights defenders on every issue, stressing that differences of opinion are an essential feature of a democratic society that upholds freedom of thought.
Opening the 15th General Assembly of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) at the Mlimani City Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam on Friday, July 24, 2026, Dr Nchimbi said diversity of views should be embraced rather than treated as a source of conflict.
He argued that expecting all citizens to think alike would undermine the very essence of a free society.
"A government is not obliged to agree with human rights defenders on every issue, just as Tanzanians are not required to share the same views on everything. Every individual has the capacity to think and act independently," he said.
The Vice-President noted that differences between the government and human rights organisations should provide space for dialogue and mutual understanding rather than confrontation.
He said disagreements are inevitable in a pluralistic society and should be handled through respectful engagement.
"There are occasions when we will simply have to agree to disagree. We may not reach a common position on every matter, but that should not be regarded as a failure," he said.
Dr Nchimbi's remarks come as Tanzania continues to engage with civil society organisations on governance, civic space and the promotion of human rights.
The THRDC annual assembly brought together representatives from civil society, government institutions and development partners to discuss challenges and opportunities in advancing human rights, while exploring ways to strengthen cooperation between state institutions and non-state actors.
