International bodies condemn ban

Printing Press 

By Songa wa Songa The Citizen Reporter

Posted  Thursday, October 3  2013 at  08:32

In Summary

The International Federation of Journalists voiced “serious concerns” about the deteriorating situation of press freedom in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam. Two international media organisations yesterday condemned the government’s ban on Mwananchi and Mtanzania newspapers.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) voiced “serious concerns” about the deteriorating situation of press freedom in Tanzania, following the ban.

“We are seriously worried about the Tanzanian government’s decision. Banning a newspaper means preventing journalists from providing news to the public. This is a press freedom abuse which must not be taken for granted,” Mr Gabriel Baglo, IFJ Africa director, said. “The authorities in Tanzania must re-open the two newspapers and promote press freedom”.

IFJ said it believes that journalists in Tanzania are mature enough not to promote unethical standards in their daily work. It has stated that there is nothing to prevent the government from engaging in discussions with journalists and media practitioners to develop a more efficient and responsible way of working.

The World Association of Press Councils (WAPC) also joined Tanzanian, African, and other international press freedom and human rights organisations in condemning the closure of the two national newspapers.

WAPC Secretary-General Chris Conybeare said: “These acts are repugnant to those who espouse ideals of democracy. Without press freedom, there can be no free society!”

The people of Tanzania have struggled long and hard to achieve a just and democratic society. It is time for Tanzania to repeal draconian laws like the Newspaper Act of 1976, the National Security Act of 1970, and the 1963 Official Secrets Act.

All of these permit government actions that restrict the free flow of ideas that are necessary in a robust democracy, the statement appealed.

Meanwhile, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) linked the suspension of Mwananchi and Mtanzania newspapers to the ongoing constitutional review debate, asserting that the decision has been made to divert discussions and sabotage the process.

SOURCE: THE CITIZEN