ARUSHA: PRESIDENT Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged parliaments worldwide to step up oversight and accountability, stressing that stronger cooperation is essential as nations navigate conflicts, climate change and mounting economic uncertainty.
She made the remarks yesterday when she virtually opened the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, bringing together parliamentarians and other delegates from across the world. The Assembly will conclude on Friday.
Dr Samia said many of the challenges confronting countries could not be effectively addressed through national efforts alone, making international cooperation increasingly important.
“Conflicts, climate change and economic uncertainties affect countries in different ways, and many of these challenges require international cooperation,” Dr Samia said.
She welcomed the theme of the Assembly, “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all,” describing it as particularly relevant at a time when the world is facing geopolitical uncertainties, protracted conflicts and socio-economic challenges.
“It is indeed befitting, especially during this time when the world is fraught with geopolitical uncertainties, protracted conflicts and various socio-economic challenges that dent our efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” she said.
Dr Samia observed that the work of parliaments was increasingly transcending national borders because countries shared common concerns and aspirations.
She said the IPU had for many years provided an important platform for parliamentarians to engage on such issues, exchange experiences and develop approaches to common challenges.
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“The government of Tanzania is proud to host this Assembly, and it is my firm conviction that you will draw upon the experience of the Parliaments gathered in this room and yield outcomes of lasting value to the countries you serve,” she said.
The President stressed that every parliament derived its authority from the people it represented, with citizens entrusting elected representatives with their concerns and aspirations.
She said citizens expected parliamentarians to demand answers from those entrusted with governing and to ensure that public interests remained at the centre of government decisions.
“That trust carries a solemn responsibility to legislate the public interest, scrutinise the allocation and expenditure of public resources, and hold governments accountable,” Dr Samia said.
She noted that in Tanzania, the responsibility was anchored in the Constitution, which gives Parliament oversight and advisory functions on behalf of the people.
“My government holds that mandate in high regard, recognising that the Parliament’s role strengthens the work of the government and the accountability we owe to the people of Tanzania,” she said.
Dr Samia also expressed hope that the Assembly would produce meaningful outcomes and strengthen parliamentary cooperation in addressing global challenges.
She wished delegates fruitful deliberations and a memorable stay in Arusha, while inviting them to experience Tanzania beyond the conference halls.
She highlighted the country’s northern national parks, the coast and Zanzibar as some of the destinations delegates could visit during their stay.
“May you also find time to experience Tanzania beyond these conference halls, from the landscapes of our northern parks to the pristine coast and islands of Zanzibar, as well as enjoying the hospitality and beauty of our people,” she said.