FREEDOM OF PRESS IN TANZANIA

    
It is known world wide that freedom of information  is a fundermental right to human beings and had been endorsed by The United Nations in the Universal Declaration Charter,stressed by Geneva Convention. 
       In Tanzania,the  issue has been supported by Parliament enacting the law which recognises  such rights though there are some shortcomings while implementing the law caused by draconian Newspaper Act of 1976 which is said to be oppressive and outdated.
    Records available indicate that some media some media outlets have been subjected to closure,or severely warned by the relevant  department in the ministry of Information,at times without calling for defence by editors or publishers.
        There are cases where journalists and their editors are summoned  to police stations for interrogation and later released on bail,but ordered to report frequently without being charged at the court of law.
        When the politicians need to be elected for high political positions especially presidential post,they claim to be ambitious that when elected,such laws will be disbanded,but once elected none remembers what was promised at the plat form during costly campaigns..
        Harassments and abuse of power against media staff is now rampant in Tanzania,but every leader wants his or her to  published or aired regardless of the oppressed professionals.
      Another issue being questioned ever since is the bureaucratic process or registering newspapers whereby an applicant publisher is required to produce undisputed bank  statement to prove ability of remaining in the competitive market as scheduled
    Also,the order of accrediting journalist by the so called press card is another disturbing law wherebyothers are denied accreditation on political grounds or personal misunderstandings.

hojja

My name is Yassin Sadik based in Dar es Salaam working as a journalist,my position is A Managing Editor of HOJA newspaper.
     This week I am attending a crutial meeting regarding investigative journalism training. With this under  experienced trainers,I expect to gain more and ensuremy surbodinates  benefit accordingly.