Press Freedom Under Fire In Tanzania: Simiyu Journalists Expelled, Government’s Veil of Secrecy Exposed.
February 21, 2024
By Adonis Byemelwa
In the town of Bariadi, the esteemed District Commissioner, Simon Simalenga (adorned in glasses), exhibits exemplary leadership while guiding one of his official duties. Photo courtesy Simiyu Press Club.
In a high-stakes showdown that unfolded during the District Consultative Council Meeting (DCCC) on February 19, 2024, at the Bariadi Municipal Council Hall, the charismatic District Commissioner of Bariadi, Simon Simalenga, took center stage in a gripping clash between journalistic tenacity and authoritative control.
The expulsion of seven journalists from diverse media outlets added an unexpected twist, creating ripples of intrigue that resonate far beyond the confines of Bariadi's municipal affairs. This riveting incident accentuates a compelling narrative of power, press freedom, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the ever-evolving landscape of information.
This brazen act has drawn strong condemnation from the Simiyu Press Club (SMPC), sparking a broader discussion about the role of government officials, particularly the Minister of Information, in controlling information.
The DCCC meeting, addressing the division of Bariadi district, took an unexpected turn when Simalenga expelled the journalists, using inappropriate language and mocking them.
The affected journalists, who reported the incident to SMPC leadership, expressed their dissatisfaction, citing embarrassment and a violation of their constitutional rights.
The incident raises serious concerns about the freedom of expression and access to information, crucial elements emphasized in Article 18 of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania.
This is not the first time Simalenga has engaged in such actions. Previous instances include verbal insults directed at SMPC leaders, demonstrating a pattern of disregard for press freedom.
SMPC has taken a stand against this act of humiliation, condemning Simalenga's actions and declaring a non-collaboration stance effective from February 20, 2024.
The expulsion incident highlights a broader issue regarding the role of government officials, particularly Ministers of Information, in controlling information.
The SMPC's condemnation underscores the need for transparency and respect for the media's role in disseminating information to the public.
The Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology is called upon to state the incident, emphasizing the importance of a free press and condemning actions that hinder journalists from performing their duties.
This incident resonates with a broader trend in Tanzania, where the Ministry of Information has been criticized for suppressing media activities.
Since the days of President John Magufuli, there has been an apparent effort to control and restrict media, including the passing of laws defining who qualifies as a journalist.
The Ministry's actions seem geared toward creating an information vacuum and stifling the activities of traditional media.
The recent case involving the prolonged absence of the country's vice president added another layer to the concerns about information control. The Ministry of Information's response to social media speculation raised questions about its commitment to transparency.
The public is entitled to know about the whereabouts and activities of high-ranking officials, especially when their absence generates speculation.
The unintended consequences of suppressing traditional media through bans and closures have given rise to an assertive social media landscape that challenges gatekeeping strictures.
Social media thrives on anonymity, making it a potent force that defies press censorship. The burning candle posted on social media, alongside the vice president's picture, might be seen as in bad taste, but it reflected the frustration and desire for information in a society where traditional media is tightly controlled.
As the Simiyu Press Club takes a firm stand against the dismissal of journalists and calls for a reevaluation of information control practices, the incident catalyzes a broader discussion on press freedom and the role of government officials in shaping the narrative.
On a lighter note, the expulsion of journalists from the DCCC meeting by District Commissioner Simalenga has ignited a significant debate on press freedom and information control in Tanzania.
On December 2, 2023, a crisis unfolded at a field in Yombo, Temeke District, unveiling a troubling state of practicing journalism in Tanzania.
As a journalist diligently sought the truth about the incident, attempts to contact the Director of Temeke Municipality, Lusubilo Mwakabibi, for clarification on the conflict were met with an unexpected hurdle. The journalist's efforts to arrange a meeting at Mwakabibi's office were rebuffed with a response asserting that the journalist lacked the status to meet with her.
This incident sheds light on the challenges journalists face in Tanzania, where even the embattled Director of Temeke Municipality appeared to hinder transparency and open communication. The resistance encountered in seeking clarification reflects a broader issue in the accessibility of information and the difficulties journalists face in fulfilling their role as watchdogs of society.
The situation took a more concerning turn as the District Commissioner was accused of detaining journalists for 24 hours. Allegedly, this punitive action was taken because the journalists had entered a meeting without following prescribed procedures for information gathering. This raises questions about the extent to which journalists can operate freely and carry out their duties without fear of reprisal.
Adding to these challenges is the apparent contradiction within the government, where the very minister responsible for protecting journalists has been implicated in actions contrary to press freedom. The same minister who should be safeguarding the rights of journalists is the one who previously banned the live broadcast of Parliamentary sessions.
Furthermore, this minister was instrumental in preventing journalists from discussing the prolonged absence of the Vice President, creating an environment where crucial information was suppressed.
It appears that journalists in Tanzania lack a proper channel to express their grievances and lodge complaints against violations of their rights. The Ministry of Information, charged with protecting journalists, seems to be orchestrating actions that undermine their ability to operate freely and without intimidation.
In light of the Yombo incident and the myriad challenges confronting journalists in Tanzania, a compelling case emerges for a comprehensive reassessment of the state of press freedom in the country. Journalists serve as vital conduits of information, holding those in power accountable and enlightening the public. The urgent imperative lies in ensuring that their rights are not only recognized but vehemently safeguarded.
For Tanzania to truly thrive as a democratic society, fostering an environment that champions the unrestricted dissemination of information is paramount. A transparent and open dialogue between journalists and government officials is not merely a recommendation but an essential foundation for nurturing democratic principles. By upholding the free flow of information, Tanzania can fortify its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the fundamental principles that underpin a robust democracy.
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1 comment
I commend this kind of exposition to shame those who accidentally acquired titles of leadership without knowing that transparency is central in leadership.
More articles and stories of the like will slowly challenge the ill-formed and ill-informed leaders.People need to that press freedom and freedom of the press are inseparable brothers whom we(Tanzanians and Africans) need to guard them enviously for in them the secret of sustainable development is hidden.
Corruption, irresponsibility and incompetence can only be effecticely fought if the ‘two brothers’ are well guarded and continue to inheal and exheal.
Thumb up those who torch ‘our leaders’ if at all they are leaders and are our leaders.
I commend this kind of exposition to shame those who accidentally acquired titles of leadership without knowing that transparency is central in leadership.
More articles and stories of the like will slowly challenge the ill-formed and ill-informed leaders.People need to that press freedom and freedom of the press are inseparable brothers whom we(Tanzanians and Africans) need to guard them enviously for in them the secret of sustainable development is hidden.
Corruption, irresponsibility and incompetence can only be effecticely fought if the ‘two brothers’ are well guarded and continue to inheal and exheal.
Thumb up those who torch ‘our leaders’ if at all they are leaders and are our leaders.