DODOMA: Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has issued a strong call for greater accountability across the public service while warning that threats to peace and national unity will not be tolerated as Tanzania embarks on implementing its first budget under Vision 2050.
In his address to adjourn the Third Meeting of the 13th Parliament yesterday, Dr Nchemba urged public leaders to prioritise service delivery, resolve wananchi’s grievances promptly and avoid political divisions that could derail the country’s development agenda.
He said the 2026/27 Budget marks the beginning of a new phase of national development, making efficient implementation the government’s immediate priority.
“From 1 July, we begin implementing Vision 2050. Every leader must now focus on ensuring wananchi benefit from the plans approved by Parliament.”
The Prime Minister cautioned leaders against allowing political interests to overshadow their public responsibilities.
“Stop building camps. Stop nursing election wounds. Concentrate on delivering services to wananchi.”
Dr Nchemba said wananchi should not have to wait for visits by national leaders before their concerns are addressed, stressing that local government authorities and public institutions already have the mandate and capacity to resolve most complaints.
“Resolving citizens’ grievances is not the Prime Minister’s job during a tour. It is your daily responsibility.”
He instructed ministries, regional administrations and local government authorities to strengthen service delivery systems and ensure that citizens receive timely responses through existing administrative structures.
The Prime Minister also warned public officials against neglecting their duties while anticipating appointments or transfers.
“Do not wait for appointments. Serve where you are. Performance, not speculation, will determine your future.”
He said the government would continue assessing leaders on the quality of services delivered to wananchi and would not hesitate to take action against those who fail to meet expectations.
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To improve communication between government and citizens, Dr Nchemba encouraged wider use of digital platforms established to receive complaints and feedback, including e-Mrejesho, e-Kiongozi, ministry feedback systems and the National Call Centre.
“The service is free. Citizens can call, send messages, upload photographs, videos and documents, and receive immediate assistance or be connected to the relevant institution.”
Turning to national cohesion, the Prime Minister described peace and security as non-negotiable foundations of Tanzania’s development.
“Peace, security and stability are the nation’s number one priority. There is no debate about that.”
He warned that authorities would act firmly against anyone seeking to undermine public order.
“Acts of violence, incitement and disorder will not be tolerated. The law will take its course.”
Dr Nchemba also appealed to political parties and their supporters to uphold civility, arguing that democracy flourishes where differing views are expressed with respect.
“Civilised politics strengthens peace. Respect differences, reject inflammatory language and always put Tanzania first.”
He credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s 4Rs philosophy—reconciliation, resilience, reforms and rebuilding—with expanding political dialogue and reinforcing democratic governance.
Quoting the late South African President Nelson Mandela, Dr Nchemba reminded Parliament that lasting unity cannot be achieved through legislation alone.
“Reconciliation is more than a legal process; it must live in the hearts and minds of the people.”
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister urged Tanzanians to safeguard the peace inherited from the nation’s founders and reject any attempts to divide the country.
“Our unity is not up for negotiation. Let us protect it, defend it and place our nation above every other interest.”