This archive report was first published on 23 July 2019.
As a columnist, I've encountered numerous questions about the state of the Tanzanian media. Growing up in the single-state media-controlled 1980s and 1990s, I've witnessed significant progress in liberalizing our media space. Nevertheless, many consumers remain unhappy, citing biases, addiction to controversy, and lack of regulation.
While there's some truth to these claims, the media self-regulates to higher standards than the state could. However, I understand the allure of taking progress for granted.
Recent restrictions on media freedoms have altered the landscape. A free media encourages quality, as credible and thorough reporting provides a competitive advantage. In contrast, restricted spaces lead to a deterioration in overall quality, as newsrooms are pressured to sell under any circumstances.
Against this backdrop, last week's events were thrilling. Retired CCM secretaries-general Yusuf Makamba and Abdulrahman Kinana wrote a strongly worded letter, naming a prominent individual accused of unscrupulous behavior. This individual has been operating since the current administration took power, engaging in activities that make professional newsrooms nauseated.
The letter, written on a CCM letterhead, marked a significant moment in discussing state capture. I'm hopeful that this action will restore respect for the free media's work, which involves speaking truth to power.
It's essential to recognize the media's role in holding those in power accountable. The cost of having ethics is high, but it's a price worth paying. As someone who's not affiliated with any party, I'm keenly aware of the internal fighting between factions.
With Makamba and Kinana's letter, a door has been opened. Who will dare to walk through it? Only time will tell, and we'll be watching.
Elsie Eyakuze is a consultant and blogger for The Mikocheni Report. E-mail: [insert email]
