Democratic practices in Tanzania

Democratic practices in Tanzania

A country can be judged as democratic or undemocratic by observing the events occurring in that country. The events can be political, social or economic. According to the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, Tanzania is governed democratically. Therefore, Tanzania is one of the countries that practise democracy. The following are the things that show that Tanzania is a democratic country:

1. Freedom of expression: A democratic country allows its citizens to express their views on various aspects of social, economic and political development. The citizens of such a country are free to express their views through the radio, television, newspapers, social media and public meetings.

2. Free and fair elections: A democratic country promotes and ensures that free and fair elections are conducted so that citizens can elect or be elected during elections. In Tanzania, local and central government leaders are elected during elections which are guided by laws and managed by the National Electoral Commission (NEC). During elections votes are counted and winners are announced.

3. Establishing and joining political parties: A democratic country allows its citizens to establish or join political parties of their choice, provided that they abide by the relevant laws, rules and regulations. Tanzania has had a multiparty system since 1992 and its citizens are free to start or join political parties of their choice.

4. Freedom of assembly: A democratic country allows its citizens to participate in different social forums and religious activities, as well as express their views on economic and political issues. For example, when a political party organises a rally, citizens are free to attend it without interference. Furthermore, citizens are free to attend religious gatherings or socio-economic forums, provided that they observe the laws and regulations of the country.

5. Peaceful demonstrations: In a democratic country, citizens are allowed to demonstrate and express their views and feelings on various issues. They show their feelings to the government when they criticise violations of their rights. Citizens also use demonstrations to support the things that the government has done well. The authorities responsible for maintaining peace and security provide clearance for people to prepare and participate in demonstrations after they have been assured that the demonstrations will be peaceful.

6. Participation, transparency and accountability: In a democratic country, citizens' participation in making decisions on various issues is very important. Citizens are given an opportunity to participate in setting development plans and in making decisions which affect their lives. In Tanzania, citizens are involved in setting development plans through meetings, beginning at the village or street level. Furthermore, through representatives they are involved in administration and leadership as well as in making laws and policies. Leaders should be transparent in discharging their responsibilities and accountable by giving reports on revenue and expenditure from the village level to the national level.

7. Human rights: Human rights are observed and protected in a democratic country. In Tanzania, human rights are protected by the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. For example, the Constitution states that all people are equal before the law, that children must have access to education and that people are free to practise any faiths of their choice. Moreover, there is a special organ that protects the rights of women and children, as well as human rights in general.

8. Rule of law: The rule of law is very important in a democratic country because it protects citizens from oppression and guarantees their rights. It also prevents government leaders and officials from abusing their powers. The rule of law is observed in Tanzania and the mother law is the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. The rule of law helps to promote equality in the society.

9. Political tolerance: A democratic country allows an individual, people, parties and communities with different views and perspectives to live together and cooperate in doing various activities harmoniously. Social services are provided without discrimination. Members of Parliament and ward councillors, though they are from different political parties, plan and discuss together the country's development plans in peace and harmony