Tanzanians warn Damaseb against joining Lila Commission

Namibia’s Deputy-Chief Justice Petrus Damaseb is facing criticism from Tanzanians questioning his appointment to Tanzania’s Commission of Inquiry into Criminal Offences, known as the Lila Commission.

Damaseb was nominated by Chief Justice Peter Shivute after Tanzania asked Namibia to provide a serving or retired High Court judge for the inquiry. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) backed his nomination, citing his extensive judicial and administrative experience.

However, Tanzanian voices on social media have questioned the commission’s independence and Damaseb’s participation.

Activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai urged Swapo leaders to intervene and ask Damaseb to withdraw, warning that his involvement could damage his reputation and that of Namibia.

The commission is investigating violence and alleged criminal offences linked to Tanzania’s 29 October 2025 general election and its aftermath. It was established by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on 18 May 2026, following recommendations by an earlier commission chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande.

The commission is chaired by retired Court of Appeal judge Shabani Ali Lila and includes six commissioners from Tanzania, Namibia and Uganda. It has 150 days to investigate those allegedly involved in planning, financing or participating in election-related violence and recommend accountability measures.

Namibia backs Damaseb

The JSC said Damaseb’s nomination followed “due deliberation” after Tanzania formally requested a Namibian judge.

It said his seniority and experience made him appropriate for the “sensitive and potentially complex” matters before the commission.

Damaseb is Namibia’s Deputy Chief Justice and Judge-President of the High Court, as well as an ex officio member of the Supreme Court.

The JSC said arrangements would be made to ensure his judicial responsibilities continue uninterrupted while he serves on the commission.

It expressed confidence that his participation would reflect the standing of Namibia’s judiciary and contribute to an important regional undertaking.

The criticism, however, highlights potential concerns over how Damaseb’s involvement will be perceived by Tanzanians critical of the government’s handling of the election-related violence.

The commission has yet to begin its substantive work.