Speaker of the National Assembly, Mussa Azzan Zungu, has called on media organisations to work closely with Parliament in educating the public about the institution's 100-year history, as Tanzania prepares to mark the centenary of its legislature in January 2027.
Addressing editors and journalists, Zungu said the media would play a vital role in ensuring that Tanzanians and the international community receive accurate and comprehensive information about Parliament's evolution, achievements and contribution to the country's democratic and socio-economic development.
"The media are strategic partners in preserving and communicating the history of our Parliament. We want the public to understand how far the institution has come and the role it has played in shaping the nation," he said.
The Speaker said the celebrations would provide an opportunity to reflect on the journey of Tanzania's legislature, from the establishment of the Legislative Council (LEGCO) in 1926 under British colonial administration to the modern Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania.
He noted that over the past century, the institution has undergone significant transformation, including the introduction of African representation in the Legislative Council, the first parliamentary elections, Tanganyika's independence in 1961, the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar in 1964, and the restoration of a multi-party political system in 1992.
The centenary celebrations will be held under the theme: "100 Years of Parliament: Our History, Our Vision."
According to Zungu, Parliament has remained a cornerstone of Tanzania's democratic governance by fulfilling its constitutional mandates of law-making, oversight of the Executive and representation of citizens.
He said the institution has recorded notable achievements, including stronger parliamentary committees, greater use of digital technology in legislative business, enhanced transparency through live broadcasts of parliamentary proceedings and expanded parliamentary diplomacy with legislatures around the world.
Zungu also highlighted progress in promoting inclusive representation, saying women now make up nearly 40 percent of Members of Parliament, while the number of young legislators and representatives of persons with disabilities has continued to increase.
He called on Tanzanians to take part in the anniversary celebrations, saying the milestone belongs to all citizens and offers an opportunity to celebrate the country's democratic journey.
Responding to questions on criticism that parliamentary debates have lost their appeal, Zungu said criticism is inevitable for any public institution but insisted Parliament continues to perform its duties in accordance with the Constitution and the Standing Orders.
He cautioned that some information circulating on social media is intended to discredit the institution and urged the public to assess Parliament based on its legislative, oversight and representative functions rather than unverified online narratives.
The Speaker further said Parliament would continue to oversee the implementation of the Tanzania Development Vision 2050, while ensuring that public resources approved by the House are used efficiently and for the benefit of citizens.
He thanked journalists for their continued support in informing the public and reaffirmed Parliament's commitment to maintaining openness, transparency and constructive engagement with the media as preparations for the historic centenary celebrations gather pace.
