LHRC WARNS OF HUMAN RIGHTS RISKS OVER 2026/2027 GOVERNMENT BUDGET THROUGH FINANCE BILL

The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) has expressed concern over several proposals contained in the Government Budget for the 2026/2027 financial year through the 2026 Finance Bill, as well as the extremely limited two-day period provided for public participation in the review and discussion of the Bill, which proposes amendments to 26 laws.

LHRC notes that the short timeframe did not provide adequate opportunity for citizens, civil society organizations, professional bodies, and other stakeholders to thoroughly review the Bill and submit meaningful contributions. Such limited public participation undermines the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making in the legislative process.

Furthermore, LHRC's analysis indicates that some of the proposed tax and levy measures may increase the cost of living, particularly for low-income households, women, small-scale farmers, livestock keepers, and other vulnerable groups. The Centre is also concerned about proposed amendments to the Bank of Tanzania Act relating to emergency lending, which, if not accompanied by strong transparency and accountability safeguards, may create risks of misuse of public resources.

In light of these concerns, LHRC calls upon:

1. The Government to ensure that tax and fiscal policies promote equity, justice, and the welfare of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups;

2. The Bank of Tanzania to establish robust transparency and accountability mechanisms in the issuance and management of emergency loans; and

3. Parliament to exercise effective oversight over such loans and ensure that no loopholes exist for the misuse of public funds.

Download the full statement for a detailed analysis of the 2026 Finance Bill and the 2026/2027 Government Budget.