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requirements for the registration of a political party, such as the need to
include regional representation, are necessary to avoid tribalism.
90.2 Regarding the alleged discrimination, the Respondent argues that
the relevant constitutional amendments were not targeted at any
particular individuals, but apply to all Tanzanians equally; therefore the
amendments are not discriminatory.
90.3 With regard to the alleged violation of the right to freedom of
association, the Respondent argues that standing for a political position
is a matter of personal ambition; one is not forced to do so if one does
not want to. Referring to 2nd Applicant in particular, Respondent argues
that he has never been prevented from participating in politics; he
belongs to a political party and has stood for the position of President but
lost.
90.4 The Respondent therefore prays the Court to dismiss the
applications.
The Decision of The Court On The Merits.
The right to participate freely in the government of one’s country
91.
The Applicants, as stated earlier, contend that the Respondent is in
violation of article 13 (1) of the Charter. They argue that the violation is
still continuing as it pertains to constitutional and statutory provisions
which are still in force.