This archive report was first published on 31 October 2019.
Published on October 31, 2019, a district commissioner in Tanzania has sparked controversy with a call to jail couples in come-we-stay marriages.
Andrea Tsele, the district commissioner of Ludewa in Njombe region, made the announcement at a men's conference in the district.
According to Tsele, come-we-stay relationships have led to a significant increase in street children, and he urged couples in such unions to formalize their marriages before having children.
'I urge you to ensure that you formally tie the knot before planning to have babies,' Tsele said. 'That happens in churches, mosques, and the registrar of marriages office. And you, Ludewa police boss, I order you to arrest and oversee the prosecution of couples who are in come-we-stay relationships.'
The move has sparked debate, with some arguing that it is an overreach of authority. However, Tsele's logic is rooted in the desire to reduce the number of street children.
As one video shows, Tsele is determined to see his vision through, even if it means jailing those who refuse to comply.
