Swearing in football match

I was at a football match last weekend, and after our team missed a penalty, I let out a burst of angry words. These words were not pleasant, and a fight almost broke out because even my team’s supporters disliked them. A police officer nearby told me to cool down and mind my language or risk arrest for using abusive language in public. I questioned his authority to arrest me, while it was normal for people to curse in such events. I was not fighting or insulting anyone in particular. I was just expressing my disappointment in my team. Can someone really get into legal trouble for swearing in a public place?

HH, Mwanza

We understand your frustration about your team losing the penalty. The passion for football is almost a national religion world over including in Tanzania, but even religion has commandments. Swearing or using obscene, abusive, or insulting language in public can indeed attract the attention of the law. The relevant provision is section 89(1)(a) of the Penal Code Cap. 16 [R.E. 2023], which provides that a person who uses obscene, abusive or insulting language to any other person in such a manner as is likely to cause a breach of the peace commits an offence. If your language could provoke violence, disturb others, or cause a scene, police can warn, arrest, or charge you.  While swearing in public may feel like stress relief, the law must be obeyed. So next time your team misses a penalty, try being cautious of your conduct. Consult your lawyer for further guidance.