Tanzania:Arusha International Conference Centre Takes Action Against Corruption Despite Legal Challenges

By Adonis Byemelwa

Shinyanga: In a bold move signaling a commitment to transparency, the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) has suspended six top employees, including three directors, over allegations of misconduct and operational breaches. Effective April 3, 2024, this action underlines AICC's dedication to accountability in the face of corruption challenges plaguing Tanzania's public sector.

According to a statement released by Freddy Maro, Head of AICC's Communications Unit, the suspended individuals, namely Savo Mung'ong'o, Victor Kamagenge, Mkunde Mushi, Festo Mramba, Augustine Karadoga, and Catherine Kilinda, have been relieved of their duties to facilitate a thorough investigation into the allegations. These allegations range from financial impropriety to violations of public entity operational protocols, reflecting the pervasive nature of corruption within Tanzania's public sector.

The decision to suspend these high-ranking officials comes amidst a backdrop of renewed efforts by the Tanzanian government to address corruption and promote good governance. President Samia Suluhu Hassan's call for heightened professionalism and efficiency among public entity executives resonates strongly in this context, emphasizing the broader national agenda of combating corruption and promoting accountability across all sectors.

However, amidst these efforts, there remains a persistent challenge – the exploitation of legal tactics by accused civil servants to evade accountability. In numerous instances, individuals accused of corruption have been suspended from their duties, only to remain untouched due to procedural irregularities and legal maneuverings, leading to a frustrating cat-and-mouse dynamic between perpetrators and authorities.

A recent case involving former Director of the Arusha City Council, Dr. John Pima, and his colleagues sheds light on this issue. Despite being sentenced to 20 years in prison for economic sabotage offenses, Dr. Pima and his co-accused successfully appealed their sentence, leading to their immediate release. The High Court of Arusha nullified the proceedings and guilty verdict, citing procedural irregularities, particularly the lack of consent from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to prosecute a Presidential appointee.

This legal loophole underscores the challenges faced by authorities in holding corrupt individuals accountable and emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive legal reforms to strengthen anti-corruption measures. As AICC navigates through its internal investigation, the broader context of combating corruption within Tanzania's public sector remains a complex and ongoing struggle.

Coinciding with these developments is the appointment of Christine Mwakatobe as the new CEO of AICC, succeeding Ephraim Mafuru, who transitioned to the role of CEO at the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB). Mwakatobe's appointment signifies a renewed commitment to leadership and governance within the institution, yet also highlights the importance of implementing effective oversight mechanisms to prevent future instances of corruption.

Furthermore, the historical significance and multifaceted role of AICC in Tanzania's socio-economic landscape cannot be understated. Established under the Public Corporation Act of 1969, AICC serves as a hub for conferences and conventions, providing essential services to both local and international stakeholders. Its ownership and operation of the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam further highlight its commitment to fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

However, challenges such as instances of corruption and fraudulence have, at times, marred AICC's reputation. The tenures of past executives, including the late Edward Lowassa and Elishilia Kaaya, have been shadowed by allegations of financial irregularities and misconduct, accentuating the need for greater accountability and transparency within the institution.

Nevertheless, AICC remains steadfast in its mission to promote international dialogue and cooperation. By addressing internal challenges and implementing robust oversight measures, the institution is poised to realize its full potential in driving positive change and contributing to national development efforts.

As Tanzania continues its efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance, the case of AICC serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges faced by public institutions in the country. With a renewed focus on transparency, accountability, and legal reform, there is hope for meaningful progress in the fight against corruption and the promotion of integrity within Tanzania's public sector.