Angela Normino
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to launch a program to engage with citizens and address their concerns, aiming to enhance prosperity and accountability.
As both the President and the Chairperson of the ruling party CCM, President Samia will hold monthly sessions at the party headquarters in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, or Zanzibar to listen to citizens’ issues.
Mr. Paul Makonda, the CCM’s Ideology and Public Secretary, announced the initiative, emphasizing its role in promoting the integrity and accountability of public servants in promptly resolving citizens’ problems before they escalate to the President.
During a press conference at the party’s sub-headquarters in Dar es Salaam, Makonda highlighted President Samia’s commitment to following the example of former President Ali Hassan Mwinyi, who used to engage with citizens at the CCM Headquarters in Dar es Salaam.
Citizens seeking an audience with the President will be required to provide detailed information about their unresolved issues. This requirement serves as a reminder to public servants to be accountable to the people.
Makonda mentioned that a recent tour across 23 regions revealed numerous unaddressed citizen concerns, prompting the President to establish this program to address these challenges. This initiative aligns with the party’s 2020/2025 Election Manifesto focusing on citizens’ welfare.
The tour, spanning approximately 1,100 kilometers and including 247 public rallies, showcased citizens’ eagerness to engage with their leaders and find solutions to their grievances.
The visits uncovered over 2,000 grievances stemming from sluggishness, irresponsibility, miscommunication, and corruption among some leaders. The official report from the tour will soon be submitted to the party’s Secretary General and Chairperson.
Makonda stressed the need for concerted efforts to address challenges in the land sector, emphasizing accountability for those fueling land conflicts in accordance with the law.
Additionally, he highlighted injustices in business practices, including illegal enrichment and fraud. Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly rape, was identified as a significant issue in the country.
Makonda urged leaders to expedite solutions for citizens’ problems rather than merely listening to them. He emphasized the importance of addressing citizens’ concerns promptly for their well-being and the country’s overall development.
He called on leaders across various sectors to be proactive, accountable, and create a conducive environment for citizens to voice their problems. Makonda reiterated CCM’s commitment to serving as a platform for all Tanzanians to express their concerns and assured continued efforts in addressing citizens’ issues.
