What are the roles of assessors in high court Tanzania?

In the Tanzanian High Court system, the role of assessors is defined by the High Court (Organization and Procedure) Rules. Rule 15 provides for the appointment, qualifications, and functions of assessors.

Appointment of Assessors:

1. The Chief Justice may, where he considers it necessary, direct that two or more assessors shall sit with a single judge in any trial held in the High Court.

2. The Chief Justice shall appoint assessors from a panel of persons who have been found qualified and suitable by the Judicial Service Commission.

Qualifications of Assessors:

1. Assessors must be Tanzanian citizens.

2. They must be at least 25 years old.

3. They must have a good understanding of the English language.

4. They must be of good character and have no criminal convictions.

5. They must possess an appropriate level of education, knowledge, and experience in the field relevant to the case they will be assisting.

Functions of Assessors:

1. Assessors are appointed to assist the judge in assessing the evidence in a case.

2. They may put questions to witnesses and may express their views on the evidence and on the issues in the case.

3. Assessors do not have the power to make decisions in the case. The final decision rests with the judge.

4. Assessors may be consulted by the judge during the trial and may provide their advice and opinions on matters of fact, including technical matters related to their field of expertise.

It's important to note that the role of assessors in the Tanzanian High Court is advisory. They are not judges, and they do not have the power to make decisions or binding orders in the case.