President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has emphasized the need for parliaments globally to strengthen their oversight, accountability, and cooperation as governments face numerous challenges, including conflicts, climate change, and economic uncertainties. She made these remarks while virtually opening the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, which brought together parliamentarians and delegates from around the world. The Assembly is set to conclude on Friday.
Dr. Hassan highlighted that while governments work together to address shared challenges, parliaments have a crucial responsibility to examine government commitments, assess their implications, and sustain cooperation across national and political lines. She welcomed the Assembly's theme, "Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust, and opportunities for all," noting its relevance in the face of geopolitical uncertainties, protracted conflicts, and socio-economic challenges.
The President observed that the work of parliaments increasingly transcends national borders, as countries share common concerns and aspirations. She praised the IPU for providing a platform for parliamentarians to engage on these issues, exchange experiences, and develop approaches to common challenges. Dr. Hassan expressed her pride in Tanzania hosting the Assembly and her conviction that the gathering would yield outcomes of lasting value to the countries represented.
Dr. Hassan stressed that every parliament derives its authority from the people it represents, with citizens entrusting elected representatives with their concerns and aspirations. She noted that citizens expect parliamentarians to demand answers from those in power and ensure that public interests remain at the center of government decisions. This responsibility, she emphasized, carries a solemn obligation to legislate in the public interest, scrutinize public resource allocation, and hold governments accountable.
In Tanzania, Dr. Hassan noted that this responsibility is anchored in the Constitution, which grants Parliament oversight and advisory functions on behalf of the people. She stated that her government holds this mandate in high regard, recognizing that Parliament's role strengthens the government's work and accountability to the Tanzanian people.
Dr. Hassan 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, inviting them to experience Tanzania beyond the conference halls. She recommended visiting the country's northern national parks, the coast, and Zanzibar.
The 153rd Assembly of the IPU will conclude on Friday, having brought together parliamentarians and delegates from across the world to discuss pressing global issues. Dr. Hassan's address emphasized the critical role of parliaments in promoting good governance, accountability, and cooperation in the face of growing challenges. Her call for strengthened parliamentary cooperation and oversight resonated with the Assembly's theme and objectives.
Key points
- President Samia Suluhu Hassan calls for global parliaments to enhance oversight and accountability.
- The 153rd IPU Assembly in Arusha focuses on enhancing good governance and empowering communities.
- Dr. Hassan emphasizes the importance of parliamentary cooperation in addressing global challenges.
