Tanzania faults international media for one-sided reporting
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government has criticised several international media organisations for publishing what the country described as imbalanced, inflammatory, and misleading reports on recent events in Tanzania.
Speaking at a press conference held on Saturday at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, the government spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr Gerson Msigwa said media outlets such as CNN had failed to uphold fundamental journalistic principles, including fairness, accuracy and the right of reply in reporting on the incidents of violence that occurred during the election period and shortly thereafter.
“The actions taken by CNN and other international media are unacceptable and contrary to the ethics and foundations of professional journalism. This is a serious and deliberate violation,” he said.
Msigwa expressed the Tanzanian government’s disappointment over what he termed selective sourcing and the publication of one-sided narratives, noting that some reports had the potential to fuel hostility among Tanzanians based on political, religious or regional differences.
He emphasised that President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan and the government were deeply hurt by the misleading portrayals, observing that such coverage served only to “add salt to the wounds” rather than support national unity and stability.
“It is neither fair nor ethical for a media outlet to publish allegations from one side and justify it by claiming government officials were unreachable. This is what CNN did, publishing accusations without providing space for the government to respond,” he stated.
Msigwa urged foreign media houses to respect journalistic ethics by ensuring balanced reporting, responsible sourcing, and contextual accuracy when covering Tanzania.
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He also reminded the public and the international community that the President has established a three-month national inquiry, chaired by the Chief Justice, to thoroughly investigate recent events and present recommendations that will guide the country’s next steps.
Msigwa reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law, stressing that the nation remains open to constructive engagement with all credible stakeholders including the media, provided principles of fairness and professionalism are upheld.
