Diamond backs JAB, vows full compliance with Media Law
DAR ES SALAAM: WASAFI Media Director Naseeb Abdul, alias Diamond Platnumz, has thrown his weight behind the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB), praising its role in enforcing the Media Services Act and pledging full compliance with all legal requirements governing the media industry.
Speaking after a visit to the Board’s offices to seek clarification on key legal issues, Diamond made it clear that Wasafi Media has no intention of sidestepping the law, but is instead ready to work hand in hand with regulators to strengthen professionalism in journalism.
He acknowledged that the Media Services Act has had an impact on media houses, and insisted it cannot be contested, noting that it provided sufficient time for stakeholders to prepare and meet the set standards, including the requirement for journalists to hold at least a Diploma qualification.
“The law is the law. You cannot break it and expect to remain safe,” Diamond said, stressing that Wasafi Media has ensured full compliance among its staff. “On this matter, I am very serious.” Diamond credited the establishment of the Accreditation Board with restoring discipline in the journalism profession, adding that his organisation fully supports the Government’s drive to promote professionalism, ethics and accountability in the media sector.
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He revealed that he had previously encountered mixed interpretations of the Media Services Act, but his engagement with the Board provided clarity on the Government’s broader objective of strengthening the profession.
He also commended the Government for demonstrating patience by granting an extended transitional period for journalists and media institutions.
Praising the stance of the responsible Minister, who described the Board as a guardian of journalists, Diamond said his visit convinced him that the Board’s mission is to protect the profession rather than suppress it.
“I now clearly understand the law, and there is no reason to oppose it. My team has already taken steps and returned to colleges,” he said, underscoring the importance of open communication between media stakeholders and regulators.
On his part, Acting Director General of the Journalists Accreditation Board, Advocate Patrick Kipangula, said the Media Services Act was enacted in 2016 with an initial five-year transitional period, later extended by two years and subsequently by another three years, bringing the total to ten years.
He said the Government believes the timeframe was adequate for journalists and all media stakeholders to meet legal requirements, a move aimed at building a media profession grounded in professionalism, ethics and public trust.
