Media tasked to promote Whistleblower Act
DODOMA: THE media have been urged to continue educating the public about the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Act, Chapter 446, along with its regulations.
This initiative aims to raise public awareness of citizens’ rights and responsibilities in reporting criminal activities without fear.
The call was made in Dodoma by Senior State Attorney from the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, Ms Judica Nkya, during a stakeholders’ workshop on the law, which aimed to discuss effective ways to implement the provisions contained in the Act and its regulations.
She said in the fight against crime, including corruption, the media must ensure that the information they publish does not negatively affect whistleblowers or witnesses.
“The media play a vital role in protecting the rights and safety of whistleblowers and witnesses by avoiding the publication of information that could expose or endanger them,” Ms Nkya said.
She added that the media also have a key responsibility to educate the public about the rights of whistleblowers.
The media, she noted, should also educate communities about the consequences of concealing crimes.
“Through such education, the public will build collective awareness and contribute to the fight against corruption, crime and human rights violations,” she emphasised.
Ms Nkya further said the media should serve as a platform for public dialogue and work together in developing ethical reporting guidelines on issues involving witnesses.
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“It is important for all stakeholders, including journalists, government institutions and civil society organisations to collaborate in educating Tanzanians to build a transparent and just society for all,” she said.
The Whistleblower and Witness Protection Act, Chapter 446, was established to promote and facilitate the reporting of organised crime, corruption, unethical conduct, abuse of power and other illegal or high-risk activities.
The law also provides protection for whistleblowers and witnesses against retaliation or harassment, establishes legal procedures for rewarding and compensating them and sets other related provisions.
