STATEMENT FROM THE TANGANYIKA LAW SOCIETY (TLS) REGARDING THE THREATS AGAINST DR. RUGEMELEZA NSHALA, A MEMBER OF THE SOCIETY

The Tanganyika Law Society

The Bar Association of Mainland Tanzania 

STATEMENT FROM THE TANGANYIKA LAW SOCIETY (TLS) REGARDING THE 

THREATS AGAINST DR. RUGEMELEZA NSHALA, A MEMBER OF THE SOCIETY

The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) has received with great shock and deep concern the news about the public announcement made by Dr. Rugemeleza Albert Kamuhabwa Nshala, a valued member of TLS with Roll No 662 and a former President of the society from 2019-2021. Dr. Nshala revealed that he has been threatened by unknown individuals who intend to harm him. This alarming information was shared with the public on July 6, 2023, during a press conference held 

in Dar es Salaam, and has also been widely circulated on various social media platforms. 

As an organization established by law and empowered by section 4(d) of the Tanganyika Law Society Act, CAP 307 R.E. 2002. TLS has legal obligation to represent, protect, and assist members of the legal profession in Tanzania, without any distinction or bias, with regards to their professional conditions and other relevant matters.

TLS firmly recognizes that the right to life is sacred and protected by Article 14 of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania 1977 Cap 2 R.E. 2002, which guarantees every individual the right to life and protection of their life by society in accordance with the law. Furthermore, Article 18 of the Constitution explicitly enshrines the freedom of expression, stating that every person has the freedom of opinion, expression of ideas, and the freedom to communicate, with protection from undue interference.

TLS is equally committed to upholding Article 13(1) of the Constitution, which ensures equality before the law and prohibits discrimination. In any circumstances where there may be reason to suspect that Dr. Nshala has contravened any written law, it is imperative that he is treated as innocent until proven guilty of any offense by a Court of Competent Authority, in accordance with Article 13(6)(b). The threats against his life are not only unlawful and unconstitutional but also a violation of fundamental rights.

TLS urgently appeals to the law enforcement agencies to provide necessary security and protection to the life and well-being of Dr. Rugemeleza Albert Kamuhabwa Nshala, a respected member and former president of our society. We further implore these agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter and take all appropriate lawful measures against anyone found to be involved in the threats against our esteemed member. TLS also urges all our members to remain calm and assured that the Governing Council is actively monitoring and taking measures in addressing this critical issue. 

THIS STATEMENT IS ISSUED ON THE 10TH OF JULY, 2023, UNDER THE AUTHORITY AND ORDER OF THE TLS GOVERNING COUNCIL. 

Harold G. Sungusia President-2023/2024