EXAMINING CHALLENGES THAT BARS CONSISTENCY IN SENTENCING FATAL ROAD TRAFFIC OFFENCES
Sentencing consistency is a fundamental component of criminal justice because it promotes equality before the law, predictability, judicial accountability and public confidence in the administration of justice. However, the sentencing of offenders convicted of fatal road traffic offences in Tanzania continues to raise concerns regarding the extent to which courts impose proportionate and reasonably consistent punishments in circumstances involving the loss of human life. Although, Tanzania has established a legal framework regulating road traffic offences and criminal sentencing, the existence of statutory provisions does not necessarily guarantee consistency in their practical application. Therefore, this article examines the challenges that bar consistency in sentencing fatal road traffic offences in Tanzania. It analyses, the legal framework governing such offences. Finally, propose recommendation and draw out the conclusion reached as sentencing disparities cannot be adequately addressed by concentrating exclusively on the discretion exercised by judicial officers. But, consistency requires a comprehensive and coordinated criminal justice process in which investigations, prosecution, trial procedures and sentencing decisions are guided by clear legal standards and reliable evidence.
Keywords: Fatal Road Traffic Offences, Sentencing Consistency, Judicial Discretion, Procedural Challenges, Road Traffic Accidents, Criminal Justice.
