LHRC calls to the ongoing Parliament Session over the Written Written Laws (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act No. 1, 2026 (Bill)

Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) has today 31st March 2026, released its analysis of the Written Laws (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill No. 1 of 2026, highlighting both progressive provisions and key concerns that require further consideration before the Bill is enacted.

The Bill proposes amendments to approximately 21 laws, including the Atomic Energy Act, the Bank of Tanzania Act, the Civil Aviation Act, the Judiciary Administration Act, the National Youth Council Act, and the Prisons Act. According to LHRC, several of these proposed changes demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the rule of law, promoting good governance, and enhancing the protection of human rights in Tanzania.

Among the positive developments, LHRC commends the proposed amendments to the Drug Control and Enforcement framework, which aim to improve clarity in the definition of narcotic drugs and address existing legal gaps. The organization also welcomes reforms to the Prisons Act that introduce rehabilitation programmes for inmates, including education, vocational training, psychological support, and reintegration initiatives. These measures align with international human rights standards, particularly the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.

Despite these positive aspects, LHRC has raised several critical concerns. One of the major issues identified is the lack of a clear and competitive process in the appointment of leaders within public institutions, particularly under the Atomic Energy and Civil Aviation laws. LHRC recommends the establishment of transparent and merit-based recruitment systems to enhance accountability and institutional efficiency.

The organization has also expressed concern over proposed amendments to the Judiciary Administration Act, noting that they fail to adequately address issues affecting judicial independence. Specifically, LHRC highlights the continued involvement of Regional and District Commissioners in judicial disciplinary committees, which may create conflicts of interest and undermine the autonomy of the judiciary. LHRC calls for these roles to be exclusively handled by judicial officers.

Further concerns relate to amendments to the Bank of Tanzania Act, where LHRC cautions against granting the central bank powers to issue emergency loans to the government without clear safeguards. The organization recommends introducing limits, repayment timelines, and parliamentary oversight to ensure fiscal discipline and protect public resources.

In addition, LHRC has questioned proposed changes to the National Youth Council Act, particularly provisions that place electoral oversight under ministerial control. The Centre warns that this could compromise the independence of the Council and suggests that the Independent Electoral Commission should instead oversee youth elections to ensure transparency and fairness.

The proposed amendments to the Prisons Act have also raised serious human rights concerns. LHRC opposes the introduction of the term “child prisoner,” noting that it contradicts existing laws that prohibit custodial sentences for children. The organization emphasizes the need to uphold child protection standards and promote alternative justice measures such as diversion and rehabilitation.

In light of these findings, LHRC has called upon Parliament, the Government, and all stakeholders to carefully consider its recommendations to ensure that the final law strengthens human rights protections, upholds constitutional principles, and promotes good governance.

LHRC reaffirmed its commitment to actively participate in legal reform processes and to advocate for laws that meet both national and international human rights standards.

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