Retired Police Recalled: Boosting Forces and Enhancing Security Ahead of Elections In Tanzania

By Adonis Byemelwa

The Ministry of Home Affairs has offered retired police officers a chance to return to work on contract to bolster the force ahead of the 2024 local government elections and the 2025 General Election. The offer requires applicants to have retired in either 2023 or 2024, be in good health, have a clean record of behavior, and the contract is offered for only two years.

Some lower-ranking police officers in the regions of Mara, Shinyanga, Dodoma, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Njombe, Mbeya, and Lindi have welcomed the decision but advised that if the aim is to strengthen the force, it should be accompanied by adequate equipment.

As per officers who spoke with reporters in the Shinyanga Region under the veil of anonymity, the most recent procurement of equipment, particularly vehicles, occurred in large quantities preceding the 2015 General Election. Consequently, numerous resources across various regions are now either worn out or insufficient.

When contacted to comment on the issue of retired officers being extended contracts, Minister Masauni stated that it is a personal matter and not something done universally. He explained that it is a common practice for individuals to be extended based on need and emphasized that it's not solely due to the upcoming elections.

Regarding the procurement of equipment, government spokesperson Mobhare Matinyi mentioned that there has been a focus on budgetary and equipment support for the police force within the past three years. He highlighted the increase in the police budget from 565 billion Tanzanian Shillings in 2020/21 to 798 billion Tanzanian Shillings in 2023/24, indicating the government's commitment to enhancing the police force's capabilities.

In terms of specific equipment procurement, Matinyi mentioned that within the same period, 290 police vehicles and 105 motorcycles were purchased, and 18 police stations and 10 regional commander offices were constructed.

As per the information gathered from various regions, lower and middle-ranking officers who retired last year and this year have been called back to work on special two-year contracts in preparation for the upcoming local and general elections.

The officers expressed that this opportunity is beneficial, especially considering the stagnation in employment during the previous administration until the current presidency. However, they clarified that not every retired officer is eligible for reemployment, as it depends on individual willingness, good health, and a positive work record.

The utilisation of retired police officers in ongoing operations is poised to have significant ramifications across various spheres of law enforcement. Beyond merely addressing immediate staffing shortages, this initiative holds the potential to inject invaluable experience, expertise, and institutional knowledge back into active duty.

Retired officers bring with them a wealth of practical understanding garnered from years of service on the front lines, often in diverse and challenging environments. Their seasoned insights can serve as invaluable assets in training programs, mentoring younger officers, and devising effective strategies to tackle emerging threats and criminal trends.

Moreover, reintegrating retired personnel into the force bolsters manpower without the need for extensive recruitment and training processes. This not only saves time and resources but also ensures a swift response to evolving security demands, particularly in the lead-up to critical electoral periods like the upcoming local and general elections.

A retired police officer, Rashid Mbawala told Pan African Visions that the involvement of retired officers fosters continuity and stability within law enforcement agencies. By maintaining a connection with former colleagues and the broader law enforcement community, these individuals contribute to a seamless transition between generations of officers, preserving institutional memory and upholding professional standards.

"It's crucial to recognize the possible hurdles and constraints linked with this method. While former officers may offer valuable experience and skills, aspects like physical condition, ability to adapt to advancing technologies, and adherence to present protocols and procedures need thorough evaluation and resolution," stated Mbawala, who retired as a sergeant in 2010.

Overall, the decision to tap into the reservoir of retired police talent underscores a proactive approach to enhancing public safety and maintaining the integrity of law enforcement operations. As these experienced individuals await feedback on their contract applications, the potential impact of their reintegration into active-duty positions remains a topic of keen interest and scrutiny within both law enforcement circles and the broader community.