MISA PRESS RELEASE
20 February 2008
Media Institute South Africa - Tanzania chapter is condemning all laws and regulations that violate article 18 of the constitution of the United republic of Tanzania which provides for the access to information and the right to freedom of expression.
In past few days, there has been a series of complains against the media for what is seen as the interference of independence of Parliament, Government and Judiciary.
On 4th February, 2009 for example, the Speaker of National Assembly warned members of Parliament to stay away from media since association between Members of the Parliament and the media turns to violate Parliamentary Standing Order's provisions. He quoted section 114 of the Parliamentary Standing Order, 2007 to remind MPs from giving information to public. He said it is against regulations for Members of Parliament to speak out on matters that have been discussed in the Parliamentary Standing Committee. He further condemned MPs who are travelling with journalists to take precaution.
MISA- Tanzania is expressing disappointment since such statements violate the freedom of expression and the right to information. They also bring down the movement that has been established to campaign for total enjoyment of the rights to information and the freedom of expression.
MISA - Tanzania is appealing to Hon Speaker for the amendments of all provisions in the Parliamentary Standing Orders that violate the rights to information and freedom of expression. It should be remembered that, Parliament is the only place where decisions of public interest are discussed and made. Therefore it attracts the community in all spheres of life, including media at large, which is the reason why we appeal for total transparency, so as to question accountability of our representatives. If the access of information in the parliament is not accessible, then the community will be left out from matters of their interest.
Distinctively, we appeal for the amendments of section 114, to include the phrase that will provide for the right of Members of Parliament to express private opinion freely and without interference.
In addition, the Parliament Standing Orders should provide for the important definition of the term used since lack of enough definitions tends to bring difficulties in translating laws and regulations.
The amendments of the said provision will increase stake holder's participation in matters that concerns public interest. That includes media which is the primary source of information. We should respect the rights media since it is important source of information accessed by community. We demand for the respect of the right to information and freedom of expression. Unless we respect the right to information and freedom of expression, democracy will not considered to be mutual rather tyranny.
We recommend that, the Nation Assembly to have systems that will provide enough information so that the community can access such information easily
It is our belief that the Parliament will work on our recommendation and improve the current situation.//End//
Rose Haji,
National Country Director,
MISA- Tanzania
Rashweat Mukundu
Programme Specialist: Media Freedom Monitoring
MISA Regional Secretariat
21 Johann Albrecht Street
Private Bag 13386
Windhoek, Namibia
