MCT appoints TSN’s Dachi, Giliard as judges for the 16th EJAT Awards gala

DAR ES SALAAM: TWO employees of the Tanzania Standard Newspaper (TSN) have been appointed by the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) as judges for the 16th Edition of the Excellence in Journalism Awards Tanzania (EJAT).

A total of 12 judges were announced today,  April 13, 2026,  by MCT Executive Secretary Ernest Sungura, who named TSN Managing Director Asha Dachi and Senior Journalist Sauli Giliard among the panel of judges for the country’s long-established journalism awards.

Following the announcement, the judges were sworn in by Advocate Ally Kileo in accordance with the Constitution of Tanzania.

He emphasized that the oath is a legal requirement under the Oaths and Statutory Declarations Act, Cap. 34 of 1967, as amended in 2023.

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After the swearing-in ceremony, Sungura urged the judges to uphold professionalism in executing their duties, guided by EJAT criteria, with emphasis on quality, productivity, and public interest.

He noted that the awards will prioritize social impact, stating that current media trends have created mixed perceptions in society; therefore, public benefit will serve as a key evaluation criterion alongside professional and ethical standards.

Sungura added that society expects journalism that promotes accountability and solutions, including exposing corruption and driving development. He emphasized that the awards play an important role in elevating the journalism profession, enhancing winners’ profiles, and opening up further opportunities.

Speaking after his appointment, judge-designate Sauli Giliard described the role as a significant honour and pledged to uphold ethics and represent TSN effectively, drawing on his experience in the profession.

Notably, Giliard has previously participated in and won EJAT awards, including the 2021 environmental journalism category.

The appointed judges are currently attending various training sessions and are expected to convene for the final selection process of outstanding journalists for the 16th EJAT edition, scheduled to take place on May 29 this year.