This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
Published on September 24, 2019, Tanzanian President John Magufuli has proposed a deal for tax evasion and money laundering suspects to be released if they apologize and return looted funds.
The proposal aims to decongest overcrowded prisons in the country, where conditions are poor due to the high number of inmates.
Speaking at the swearing-in of new government officials at State House, Tanzania, Magufuli said that those facing charges of tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes should be given a chance to apologize and return the looted funds.
“Those who are ready to apologize and confess their wrongdoings should sit down with the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions) and work out a payment plan for the taxes they have evaded or the money that they have laundered and then they can be released from detention,” he said as quoted by Reuters.
Magufuli emphasized that his proposal is not an interference with the Judiciary, but rather a way to address the issue of overcrowded prisons and improve the living conditions of inmates.
The proposal comes at a time when prominent investigative journalist Erick Kabendera is facing charges of tax evasion and money laundering. Kabendera has denied the accusations and is seeking medical attention due to his poor health condition.
