Warioba praise ordinary people’s constitution review contributions

 Written by MARC NKWAME

 Arusha, Tanzania.

EVEN though ordinary people have scant knowledge on the constitution, most of them seem to know what is at stake and many are contributing to the ongoing debate appropriately.

Speaking at the Half Annual Conference and General Meeting of the ‘Tanganyika Law Society’ taking place here, the Chairman of Constitutional Review Commission, Judge Joseph Warioba said most Tanzanians understand what is required of them during the constitution review process and have been airing their views and opinions as required.

“We expect to complete the first phase of the debate next December before Christmas,” said Justice Warioba, adding that this was the easiest part. He pointed out that the second phase may not be as easy and will face major challenges.

In addition to public meetings, he said, all people ought to attend and are free to air their views, the commission is also actively following opinions in online forums and social media such as Tweeter, Facebook and Blogs.

“We also read and take note of all things written about the proposed new constitution from traditional media outlets such as newspapers, radio and television stations in order to come up with concrete people-based opinions and ideas,” said Judge Warioba.

He added that his team has two people taking note on every meeting; they also have two video recorders and voice transcribing recorders to ensure that they have adequate backup and proper records of all opinions and contributions from the people.

Judge Warioba asked the lawyers who gathered in Arusha to play an active role in assisting and educating ordinary Tanzanians, as well as advising the government in coming up with a proper and people-oriented constitution.

The theme for the Half Annual Conference and General Meeting of the TLS is supposed to address ‘The role of lawyers in the constitutional review process’ and the two-day event is aligned to stimulate debates and discussions that seek to make substantial contributions towards solving complex legal problems at both national and regional levels.

Mr Mustafa Akonaay, the Member of Parliament for Mbulu but also a prominent lawyer said the TLS conference was timely as far as constitution review process was concerned and as legal advocates, they were planning to play a very active role in the whole process.

Source: Daily News (01/09/2012): http://www.dailynews.co.tz/index.php/local-news/9101-warioba-praise-ordinary-people-s-constitution-review-contributions