SEXTORTION IN TANZANIA: AN EXAMINATION OF LEGAL PROTECTION, INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSE AND ACCESS TO JUSTICE
Sextortion is a form of exploitation in which a person abuses entrusted power or authority to demand sexual favours in exchange for employment, academic benefits, public services or the exercise of an official responsibility. It violates human dignity, equality, privacy and sexual autonomy. This study examines the legal framework governing sextortion in Tanzania, with particular attention to legal protection, institutional accountability and access to justice. It adopts a doctrinal legal research approach based on the analysis of legislation, judicial decisions, international and regional instruments, and scholarly literature. The study examines the relationship between sexual-offence legislation and corruption law, particularly section 25 of the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Act. It further analyses institutional responsibilities, the exhaustion of administrative remedies under section 37 of the Public Service Act, and the relationship between administrative remedies and criminal proceedings under section 4(3) of the Criminal Procedure Act. The study argues that although existing laws provide avenues for addressing conduct associated with sextortion, their fragmented application, procedural requirements and limited victim-protection mechanisms may undermine effective accountability and access to justice. It recommends clearer statutory interpretation, improved institutional coordination and stronger safeguards against retaliation.
Keywords: Sextortion, abuse of authority, sexual exploitation, corruption, legal protection, institutional accountability, access to justice.
