This archive report was first published on 6 September 2021.
On September 6, 2021, the Tanzanian government suspended the publication and distribution of Raia Mwema, a weekly tabloid, for 30 days.
The decision was made by the Director of Information Services, Gerson Msigwa, who cited the tabloid's failure to uphold journalistic principles and professionalism.
According to Msigwa, Raia Mwema had repeatedly distorted information, violating its licensing terms and potentially leading to hatred among citizens towards the government.
The tabloid was accused of publishing articles that allegedly violated journalistic principles, including an article that implied the government was hurting its citizens by imposing levies on artists and another article that sought to convince the public that a certain individual was a CCM cadre or leader.
The Office of the Director of the Information Services Department believes that the punishment will make the tabloid change its ways of operation.
Raia Mwema can appeal the decision within 30 days in accordance with Section 10 (1) of the Media Services Act No. 12 of 2016.
