President Samia Suluhu Hassan has explained her decision to appoint senior military officers as regional commissioners in Tanzania’s border areas, saying the move was driven by security considerations and the need to protect national interests.
Speaking on the matter, President Samia said border regions face unique security challenges that require leaders with strong discipline, experience in security management, and the ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats. She noted that the appointment of soldiers was aimed at strengthening coordination between civilian authorities and security agencies operating along the country’s borders.
The President emphasised that the military officers appointed to the positions remain accountable to civilian leadership and are expected to execute their duties in line with the Constitution, existing laws, and government policies. She dismissed concerns that the move could undermine civilian administration, insisting that the appointments were made in the best interest of national security and stability.
According to President Samia, border regions are often vulnerable to cross-border crime, illegal migration, smuggling, and other security risks, making it necessary to deploy leaders with extensive security backgrounds. She added that the government will continue to assess the effectiveness of the appointments and make adjustments where necessary.
The decision has sparked public debate, with some observers welcoming the move as a proactive security measure, while others have raised concerns about the growing role of the military in civilian administration. However, the government maintains that the appointments are lawful and intended to enhance service delivery and safety in sensitive regions.
