Human Rights of Women
Dar es Salaam — Drama unfolded as a middle-aged woman, Ms Swahaba Shosi, stepped forward waving a placard that drew President John Magufuli's attention during the event to mark the Law Day at Mahakama grounds. Her red dress made it easier for everyone to notice her. Her placard spoke volumes: "Police, the DPP and the Judiciary are conspiring to deny me the right to inherit property left by my husband even though I have all legal documents."
Ms Shosi was about to be arrested by the police but the atmosphere changed after the President allowed her to speak. This unfolded shortly after the Head of State had concluded his speech.
Narrating her complaints, the woman said she has been blocked by dishonest members of the Judiciary, police and private advocates from securing the right to gain control of property left by he departed husband Mohamed Shosi who died in 2012. "I have come all the way from Tanga just to meet Mr President after the failure of all efforts that I have so far taken," she said emotionally, trying hard to contain herself.
She explained how she met Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ernest Mangu, DPP Biswalo Mganga, Minister of Constitution and Legal Affairs Dr Harrison Mwakyembe, Attorney General George Masaju as well as Home Affairs minister Mwigulu Nchemba. All that came to naught, she told the attentive President.
Emotions were heightened when she narrated how she has been receiving death threats via SMS from unknown people, a matter she has been reporting to the police since 2012.
She said some people have tampered with the deceased's will so that it would read she is not entitled to inherit anything. "They have forged signatures and many other documents including death certificates. They are using money to rob me of my rights, a Tanga-advocate is collaborating with some members of the family," she explained. "It is not just me, sir. There are many women like me who are being denied their rights. Please, help me," she pleaded, holding back her tears.
The President did not interrupt her until she was done. She said she was aware she had done a dangerous thing, but she was ready the consequences.