Press Freedom Under Fire: Journalist Detained in Tanzania Sparks International Concern

By Adonis Byemelwa

Journalist Dinna Maningo was apprehended on June 13, 2024, by Mwanza police following her arrest in Tarime and subsequent transfer. Her detention has sparked widespread concern and drawn significant attention to press freedom issues in Tanzania.

Accused of disseminating confidential investigation documents, the allegations stem from her reporting on allegations against former Simiyu Regional Commissioner, Dr. Yahya Nawanda, linked to a case involving a university student in Mwanza City.

Maningo's journalistic endeavors came under scrutiny after her blog, Dima Online, intensified public scrutiny, leading to Dr. Nawanda's removal from office on June 11, 2024.

 Despite official actions, discussions online persisted, prompting further attention after the leakage of a confidential police document about the investigation.

The journalist was taken into custody at her residence in Tarime district, Mara region, and has since been represented legally through efforts organized by the Mwanza Press Club. However, attempts to secure her release on bail have faced delays.

In a concerning development, two additional journalists, Samweli Mwanga and Constantine Mathias, were reportedly arrested by authorities in Simiyu.

The circumstances surrounding their detention remain unclear, with local press clubs and the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) calling for transparency from law enforcement.

Maria Sarungi, a prominent advocate for media freedom, has boldly spoken out against the recent arrest of a journalist, urging the public to mobilize against what she describes as unjust actions by the police. In a passionate plea on her social media account, Sarungi rallied supporters to stand up for press freedom and demand accountability from authorities.

 "The arrest of journalists undermines democracy and threatens our right to information. It's time for us to unite and demand justice for those who courageously speak truth to power."

Her call to action comes amidst growing concerns over the shrinking space for free speech in Tanzania, echoing international calls for governments to uphold journalistic integrity and protect media workers from undue persecution.

The LHRC has strongly condemned Maningo's detention, emphasizing its contravention of constitutional rights and principles of press freedom.

This incident underlines broader concerns about journalistic independence and media freedom in Tanzania, echoing global sentiments observed on World Press Freedom Day.

World Press Freedom Day, annually observed on May 3rd, serves as a poignant reminder of the essential role journalists play in upholding democracy and accountability worldwide.

 In Tanzania, recent events highlight the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in performing their duties without fear of reprisal or censorship.

Yesterday, on June 18, 2024, at Mlimani City in Dar es Salaam, a pivotal event unfolded with profound implications for Tanzania's media landscape and democratic framework.

 Ernest Sungura, Chairman of the Coalition on the Right to Information (CoRI) and Executive Director of the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), passionately addressed the pressing challenges confronting journalists across the country at the Media Development Sector Forum.

This gathering, attended by prominent figures including President Samia Suluhu Hassan, underscored critical issues such as the lack of formal contracts for 80% of journalists, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to safeguard press freedom and uphold journalistic integrity.

Sungura's remarks cast a stark light on the plight of Tanzanian journalists, revealing that a staggering 80% of them lack formal contracts.

Citing a study by the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC), he highlighted that out of approximately 20,000 journalists and media workers, only 4,000 have contracts, leaving 16,000 working without formal employment agreements.

 This troubling statistic underscores the precarious nature of journalism in Tanzania, where many reporters and media workers toil without the security of contracts or timely salaries.

"Journalism should be a profession that upholds truth and accountability, not one mired in economic uncertainty and exploitation," Sungura asserted.

His impassioned plea for reform resonated with the audience, drawing attention to the urgent need for systemic changes to protect media workers and uphold the principles of press freedom.

Adding to the discourse, veteran journalist Tido Mhando criticized the current media landscape, emphasizing how tough legal and political conditions have driven media outlets to focus more on entertainment and sports at the expense of accountability journalism.

"The shift away from investigative reporting to lighter content is not just a commercial decision; it is a survival tactic in a hostile environment," Mhando stated, urging for an environment where critical journalism can thrive without fear of retribution.

The forum also saw the presentation of a comprehensive report on the media sector by a special committee appointed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The report provided a thorough evaluation of the operational challenges and achievements of media outlets in Tanzania.

In response, President Samia assured that the government would address the media sector's economic woes, including settling media debts by the end of the year. Her commitment to addressing these issues was met with cautious optimism, as stakeholders hoped for tangible improvements.

"We recognize the critical role that the media plays in our society and the need to ensure it operates freely and fairly," President Samia said, reaffirming her administration's dedication to upholding media freedom.

Her words were seen as a promising step towards restoring faith in the government’s commitment to press freedom and the socio-economic advancement of the media industry.

Calls for transparency and respect for media freedoms continue to echo both locally and internationally, with stakeholders eagerly awaiting official responses from Tanzanian authorities regarding the detained journalists and the broader implications for press freedom in the country.